Hundreds of small flatfish were found hiding in the shelter of a discarded truck tire, although it is not known why they would gather like this, perhaps to shelter from predators.
Flatfish form the order Pleuronectiformes, which comprises more than 500 species, including as the flounder, plaice, and turbot, range from 4.5 centimeters (1.8 inches) to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length.
Suited to life on the sea floor, all species have flattened bodies with a pigmented dorsal surface, and some can change color to match their surroundings.
They are all characterized by asymmetry with both eyes on one side of the body. Interestingly, the larvae are symmetrical but one of the eyes migrates across the top of the head during development.
You can watch the various stages of the larva to adult metamorphosis in this video.
Matthew Oldfield is a freelance photographer based in Bali, Indonesia, specializing in editorial and documentary images from both above and below the waves. He works primarily with charities, NGO’s, and other organizations working to conserve the environment, endangered species, and disappearing cultures.
Flatfish form the order Pleuronectiformes, which comprises more than 500 species, including as the flounder, plaice, and turbot, range from 4.5 centimeters (1.8 inches) to 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in length.
Suited to life on the sea floor, all species have flattened bodies with a pigmented dorsal surface, and some can change color to match their surroundings.
They are all characterized by asymmetry with both eyes on one side of the body. Interestingly, the larvae are symmetrical but one of the eyes migrates across the top of the head during development.
You can watch the various stages of the larva to adult metamorphosis in this video.
Matthew Oldfield is a freelance photographer based in Bali, Indonesia, specializing in editorial and documentary images from both above and below the waves. He works primarily with charities, NGO’s, and other organizations working to conserve the environment, endangered species, and disappearing cultures.
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