The blob fish (Psychrolutes marcidus) is one of the most interesting creatures on earth. As a result of a vote, it was declared the ugliest fish in the world. In this article, we will give information about the characteristics of the blob fish, where it lives, its feeding and breeding habits.
Dropfish has a shapeless appearance with a soft texture. Blob fish can be 30 cm and larger in size. Its weight is around 6 kilograms. Their eyes are small and their mouth is wide, but they do not have hard bone structures. Due to its appearance, it has been given names such as sad fish and human-faced fish. Blob fish is a fish whose flesh is inedible.
Where Do Blob Fish Live?
The blob fish lives in the depths of the ocean around Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania. These fish, which are generally found at depths of 600 to 1,200 meters, can also live at depths of up to 2,800 meters. Research conducted in oceanography and other marine sciences helps us better understand the habitat of this species.
What Does Blob Fish Eat?
The blob fish eats crustaceans and invertebrates such as shrimps, mussels, and marine worms on the seafloor. This slow-moving fish catches prey caught in the current by opening its mouth wide to swallow its food.
Reproduction
The reproductive habits known about the blob fish are quite limited. It is believed that this species reproduces by oviposition, but there is a lack of information on the number of eggs, incubation period, and development process of the offspring. The research conducted is aimed at understanding the population structure and reproductive strategies of this species.
Threats and Protection Studies
Since the blob fish lives in the deep seas, it does not face the direct influence of humans. Blob fish meat is inedible, so it is not hunted. However, marine pollution, climate change and other human activities indirectly damage the habitat of this species. Deep-sea fishing and oil drilling in particular harm the blob fish by destroying their habitats.
Yet, at this time, blob fish are not included in the endangered categories determined by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The reason for this is not having enough information about the species' population and habitat. This is considered an important reason for scientists to do more research on this species and develop policies for the protection of marine ecosystems.
