Interactions between fish species on seamount coral habitat

• Published in: Acta ethologica 2014-10, Vol.17 (3), p.193-201
• Main Authors: Gomes-Pereira, J. N., Porteiro, F. M., Santos, R. S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animal behavior; Behavioral Sciences; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Coral reefs; Evolutionary Biology; Fish; Habitats; Life Sciences; Ocean floor; Seamounts; Short Communication; Swimming; Zoology
• ISSN: 0873-9749; 1437-9546
• DOI: 10.1007/s10211-013-0176-y

The behaviour of the scorpionfish Helicolenus dactylopterus and Pontinus kuhlii towards the zooplanktivores Anthias anthias and Callanthias ruber are described from rare in situ remote-operated vehicle (ROV) observations. The events were recorded by ROV SP on gorgonian habitats of Dentomuricea meteor and Viminella flagellum , at the summit of Condor seamount (212–223 m; Azores, Northeast Atlantic). Behaviour in both species included approaching the zooplanktivores from a sitting position, orientating the snout in front of the object and swimming in a straight line. After an initial slow displacement, it follows an adduction of dorsal, pectoral and anal fins and an increase in speed, occasionally accompanied of a burst swim. H. dactylopterus can reach up to 0.8 m above the seafloor, departing from more than 1.5m distance; P. kuhlii was observed only on one occasion, chasing A. anthias from 0.64-m distance, with average swimming velocities of 1–2 m/s. The possibility of predatory or agonistic behaviour is discussed, with more evidence being gathered towards the former, representing a possible linkage between the pelagic and the benthic realm.