Archerfish Traditional Cache
Hidden : 1/6/2012
Difficulty:
2 out of 5
Terrain:
3 out of 5

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:




This cache is one in a series dedicated to amazing & unusual organisms. I am astounded by the amazing diversity of plant and animal life that exists in this world. But the real fascination lies with those organisms that are amazing, unusual and odd.

These organisms have capabilities that we do not share and can barely imagine: extraordinary navigational methods, abilities to regenerate lost limbs, live symbiotically with light-producing bacteria, reproduce asexually, survive in suspended animation, change shape and color at will and much more!

Archerfish (family Toxotidae)

This fish is known for it's habit of preying on land based insects and other small animals by literally shooting them down with water droplets from their specialized mouths. The archerfish has a small groove in the roof of its mouth that forms a long, narrow tube when the tongue is placed against it. The fish then propels drops of water along the tube to catch a meal. Some can shoot as far as 12 feet, with reasonable accuracy up to about 4 feet! They also have the ability to compensate for the refraction of light as it passes through the air water interface when aiming for their prey.

Found in brackish water in mangroves and estuaries and sometimes further inland in fresh water, this fish can also leap out of water to grab the prey in their jaws when it is close enough. When the leap fails, they may then resort to spitting. Archers usually swim in shooting parties. Often, several shoot at the same prey, and shoot relentlessly. When the prey finally falls, all rush to grab it.

Excellent Marksman!

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