Research Project
Unravelling the Secret Communication of Coral Reef Fish
For my Masters by Research I am conducting a study which delves into the ecology, evolution and behaviour of reef-associated fishes. On this page you can find further detail on the surrounding topic of my research, from Ultraviolet (UV) radiation to the selected families of fish I have chosen to investigate.
UV Signalling
What is UV Signalling?
Ultraviolet (UV) signalling refers to using UV radiation as a method of communication. The process involves the absorption or reflection of UV radiation by certain body structures (eg. skin, feathers, scales) to convey information to conspecifics or other organisms. UV signalling is prevalent across various taxa, including insects, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. In UV signalling, organisms produce or reflect UV light as part of their visual displays, which can convey important information to conspecifics or other species.
How do fish utilise UV for signalling?
Current research has proposed that reef-associated fishes may use UV signalling as a secret communication pathway, not available to predators within the reef (Siebeck, 2013). UV signalling is only effective over short distances due to the properties of UV radiation being scattered by water (Siebeck, 2010).
The use of UV for signalling can be both
active, being used in conjunction with behaviour to convey information
passive, where UV radiation is prevalent, free to use and in high levels can be utilised with no energy expenditure.
Overall, UV signalling in reef-associated fish represents a fascinating aspect of their behaviour and ecology, highlighting the diverse ways in which marine organisms use light and colour as a means of communication in the complex underwater environment of coral reefs.