JOURNAL ARTICLE

THIS FISH SWIMS TO THE BEAT OF ITS OWN DRUM.

  • Published In: Science News, 2026, v. 208, n. 3. P. 8 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: BUEHLER, JAKE 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the rockhead poacher, a fish species known scientifically as Bothragonus swanii, and its unique ability to produce sound through a specialized skull structure. Research conducted by a functional morphologist at Louisiana State University reveals that a divot in the fish's skull may act like a drum, with mobile ribs striking the skull's underside to create vibrations. These sounds are believed to facilitate communication among the fish in the turbulent waters along the West Coast of North America, from Alaska to California. The study utilizes advanced 3-D X-ray scans to illustrate the fish's anatomy, highlighting the significant size of the skull pit relative to its brain. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Science News. 2026/03, Vol. 208, Issue 3, p8
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Religion and Philosophy
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0036-8423
  • Accession Number:191369572
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