Fish of the Coral Reef: Crown of Thorns & More

The coral reef helps a wide-range of fish that dwell in our oceans. An array of tropical, as well as reef fish call the reef their home. There are thousands and thousands of different fish that call the coral reef their home, including fish that are hunted by humans, such as Blacktip Reef Sharks, clown fish, and groupers.

 

Blacktip Reef Sharks:

The population of this type of shark is rapidly decreasing. It is their fins that are used to create the shark fin soup that has found its way to many restaurants and cultures. This was once one of the most common sharks found in the shallow waters of the Caribbean and the Pacific. They tend to stay close to coral reefs and do not make any trips to tropical lakes or rivers that are located further from the ocean.

 

Groupers:

These fish often feed from a diet consisting of other fish, crab, lobster, and octopus. Instead of chasing their prey about in the open water, they lie in the shadows, often using the coral reef for shelter. An attractive characteristic associated with this type of fish is their polka dots. For instance, the blue-spotted grouper showcases brilliant blue and orange colors, while the humpback grouper resembles the Dalmatian of the fish world.

 

Clown Fish:

When you hear the name of this fish, do you picture an explosion of colors, accompanied by a comical appearance? The clown fish does present bright colors, but not all at one time, and there appearance is one of the more attractive species of fish. Some of the bright colors of the clownfish include red and orange, which is layered between alternating stark white stripes. They also present minimal black detailing on the edges of their fins and tail. To date, there are close to 30 species of clown fish thriving in the ocean.

 

Crown of Thorns:

There are also predators in the
ocean, which use the coral reef to help them capture their prey. It is the crown-of-thorn starfish that fits into this category. Visually, this fish is rather intriguing to gaze upon. Red in color, this kind of starfish showcases thorny spines that are displayed all over its body, which is used as a defense mechanism and protection.

 

For humans, coming into contact with one of this spiny creatures means trouble. If you were to step on or touch one of these starfish by chance, you would feel a deal of pain that could last for hours. The pricking and stinging of these spines can cause great discomfort, as well as the urge to vomit. For many days after your encounter, you will experience great swelling where the puncture was made. Sometimes, you will also see the skin about the area turn a dark clue color.

 

The Crown of Thorns starfish typically makes its home within the tropical waters of the Red Sea, as well as about the Indian and Pacific Ocean.