MBL March Madness: Sea Robin
The sea robin (Prionotus carolinus) is named for its expanded pectoral fins that resemble bird wings. The first three fin rays separate from these wings during early sea robin development and can be used as “legs” to walk along the ocean floor. These “legs” also have sensory capabilities that allow the fish to find food. Sea robins have a distinctive “drumming muscle” that makes sounds by beating against its swim bladder.
Scientists at the MBL are studying sea robins as a model for understanding the evolution of traits, including new modes of locomotion.
Fun Facts:
- These fish often produce an audible "croak" like a frog when held out of the water, which is where their other common name (the gurnard) comes from.
- Three lower rays of the northern sea robin's pectoral fins are modified to allow the animals to "walk" along the bottom of the ocean and find food.
- The sea robin’s large, wing-like pectoral fins give it the appearance of “flying” underwater.
Woods Hole Wonders Division
This division focuses on some amazing organisms found right in Woods Hole. The waters here are teaming with ecological diversity. The Gulf Stream brings animals and plants from southern waters to Woods Hole, while the colder waters of Cape Cod Bay host mainly northern marine forms. For decades, scientists have flocked to Woods Hole to study the organisms in the local waters and saltmarshes.