Sailfish Herd Prey Into Baitballs: Big Pic
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For the first time on television, sailfish, the fastest fish in the oceans, have been documented trying to pluck single fish out of a baitball -- a school of fish gathered in tight formation by predators. The scene was filmed by crews for the upcoming documentary series "LIFE," and will air on the Discovery Channel on Sunday, March 28.
Small fish group together in schools to confuse predators. Whenever threatened by a single predator, these fish will close ranks and work together to ensure that no individual becomes an easy meal.
However, when marine predators work together, as appears to be the case in this photo, the bait fish's defense can be used against them. Groups of predators can essentially herd the smaller fish into a baitball, forcing the fish to the surface.
How do the sailfish know what their companions are up to? The sailfish will actually change their color so that the whole group is aware of their intentions. That way, they can work cooperatively to ensure a feast for all.
Sailfish can be found in warmer regions in both the Atlantic and the Pacific Oceans. The average length of an adult sailfish is about six feet, but some can reach up to 10 feet.
Image credit: Discovery Channel/BBC Photographer: Hugh Miller
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