The coral reef is the scene of a seething variety of life. Inside this fascinating world, many species live close together. Many are associated only temporarily, while others share their lives permanently. The reasons are varied: protection, shelter, disposal of Parasites, food.
Would-be predators are often caught by surprise by the very highly evolved defence systems of what seem to be harmless prey.
Surgeonfish have a respectable weapon in their two erectile spines, or scalpels, on either side of the tail.
Other species, like the filament-finned stinger, have in the rays of their dorsal and pectoral fins a powerful venom, sometimes very dangerous to humans.
In stressful situations, the goldstriped grouper or the yellow boxfish soapfish release toxins into the water to poison their aggressor.
The balloonfish inflates its stomach with water. Its volume triples and discourages intrudes this way.
The eye, a sensitive area, is often the target of predators: at the last minute, the fake eye of the copperband butterflyfish diverts the attack. With the striped shimpfish, the eyes are invisible and completely hidden.
The force of number can sometimes distract the opponent: schooling is a strategy used by many species.
When it senses danger, the little sand lance seeks refuge in a hole it has excavated in the fine sand.
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