health

For the first time, fish seen climbing waterfalls in Africa: 'There are wonders beyond our imagination'

For over 50 years, people have talked about small freshwater fish called 'shellers' that climb rocks behind waterfalls in Central Africa. But this behavior has never been officially documented - until now.

For the first time, fish seen climbing waterfalls in Africa: 'There are wonders beyond our imagination'

TL;DR

  • Small freshwater fish called 'shellers' have been officially documented climbing waterfalls in Central Africa for the first time.
  • The behavior was captured on video and in photographs at the 15-meter Luvilombo waterfalls in the upper Congo basin.
  • Researchers observed the fish using hook-like structures on their fins to hold onto rocks and their tails to gain momentum.
  • The climb is arduous, with fish pausing frequently and many falling back, forcing them to restart their journey.
  • Only 'shellers' under two centimeters in length are able to make the climb, as larger individuals become too heavy.
  • The findings highlight the vulnerability of these fish to habitat loss and illegal fishing.
  • This documented behavior is significant as similar rock-climbing fish have been seen elsewhere, but never officially recorded in Africa.

Continuer la lecture de l'article original