Fish gang suspected of involvement: Accessory to Killing

Three innocent looking damselfish at Mactan Island Aquarium have been linked to the death of another larger damselfish . The new arrival was introduced into the aquarium that they share with a large yellow Frogfish. The new fish was soon herded by the gang towards the area where the Frogfish sits, as still as a rock, awaiting for a victim to approach. The Frogfish can, and DID, strike suddenly and swallow the passing fish whole, with a bite that takes just 1/6000 of a second. The fastest known movement in the animal world. The Frogfish seems to accept the presence of the resident gang, and does not eat them. Only when a new fish is added to the tank do the other fish appear to encourage the arrival to move towards the jaws of doom. Maybe they are ignored by the Frogfish in exchange for the gang not giving his position away to the new arrivals? This has not been studied in the wild but could be possible. Both parties benefit - the Frogfish eats any new fish that try to take over the territory of the gang, and the Frogfish benefits as new arrivals don't expect anything to fear from predators, seeing that other small fish already live in the area.

School kids get a lesson on DYNAMITE fishing

The Mactan Island Aquarium is full steam ahead with education these days. The last field trip that arrived tested our new quiz, it covers subjects such as dynamite and cyanide fishing, marine sanctuaries and what to do if you get stung by poisonous sea creatures.

Click here to book your field trips.

Any companies and corporations reading this - consider sponsoring a school trip to visit the aquarium and learn about protecting the future of our seas. An ideal corporate social responsibility related gesture. Sponsoring a public school would really reach the appropriate young audience to encourage positive attitudes towards the natural environment in the Philippines.

Eels from Mindanao

A fresh fish supplier named Don-Don donated us three Eels this week. They are an air-breathing variety that are rather interesting and look just like European eels. They are farmed in Mindanao, for restaurant diners. We have placed them on display as an educational exhibit, in our Philippine fresh water displays area.