What is the phenomenon of fish found in trees?
Fish up in the trees is a rare phenomenon where live fish are found in trees, quite a distance away from any water source. This bizarre sight has been witnessed in various parts of the world, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or flooding.
How do fish end up in trees?
Several factors contribute to fish ending up in trees. During periods of intense flooding, rivers and lakes can overflow their banks, submerging nearby vegetation. As the water recedes, it leaves behind pools of water near the base of trees. Fish can swim into these pools during floods and become stranded when the water retreats.
Another explanation is that birds, such as ospreys and herons, who feed on fish might drop them in trees unintentionally. This can happen when the bird loses its grip on the fish or when it tries to transport the catch to another location and drops it accidentally.
Which fish species can be found in trees?
Various fish species have been discovered in trees. In some cases, small fish like minnows and carples are found stranded in the branches. However, larger fish, including catfish or even barramundi, have also been observed in trees. The size of the fish can depend on factors such as the depth of the floodwater or the species of birds in the area.
How do the fish survive out of water?
Fish found in trees typically survive due to their amazing adaptability. While they may be out of their natural habitat, they can survive for a surprising amount of time. Some fish are equipped with a specialized labyrinth organ that allows them to extract oxygen directly from the air. This adaptation enables them to survive in oxygen-deficient environments like tree branches.
What happens to the fish after being found in trees?
When fish are discovered in trees, concerned individuals often take action to return them to water. If the tree is above a body of water, simply shaking the branch can cause the fish to fall and return to their aquatic home. In other cases, people carefully gather the stranded fish and release them back into nearby rivers, lakes, or ponds.
- Toxicity of floodwaters:
It is important to note that during flooding, the water may become contaminated with pollutants or toxins. These pollutants can be harmful to fish and can even make them unsafe for human consumption. If you come across fish in trees, it is recommended to handle them with care and avoid consuming them unless you are certain of their safety.
The phenomenon of fish up in the trees is undoubtedly one of nature’s oddities. It serves as a reminder of the incredible adaptability of animals and the unpredictability of our natural world. The next time you take a walk after heavy rain, don’t forget to look up in the trees – you might just spot a fish swimming in the branches!