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The Amazing Story of Convict Fish Survival

In The Amazing Story of Convict Fish Survival, narrator Sir David Attenborough ventures deep in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, where the convict fish has a mysterious and puzzling life. The adults never leave their mazelike burrow under the sand, while thousands of baby convict fish swarm out to gather plankton. Scientists believe the youngsters might feed the adults in return for a safe place to live, but the truth behind their teamwork remains a fascinating mystery! This video is excerpted from BBC's Life, a show that explores the remarkable strategies animals and plants use to ensure their survival.

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Location:
Southwestern Pacific Ocean
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Program:
Life
Time:
2:32
Subject:

Lesson Express

Q: How does the relationship between adult convict fish and juvenile convict fish demonstrate mutual benefit, and why is it important for their survival?
A: The adult convict fish provide a safe network of tunnels for the juveniles to grow and avoid predators, while the juveniles return with food to sustain the adults. This unique partnership allows both generations to thrive in their challenging environment.

Q: Why is it so challenging for scientists to uncover the eating habits of adult convict fish, and what does this mystery teach us about studying ocean life?
A: Adult convict fish never leave their burrows, making it nearly impossible for scientists to observe them directly. This mystery highlights how difficult it can be to study hidden or elusive species in the vast and complex ocean.

Q: If the adult convict fish didn’t build tunnels, how might the juveniles’ chances of survival change, and what does this tell us about the importance of shelter in marine ecosystems?
A: Without the tunnels, juvenile convict fish would have no protection from predators and might struggle to grow safely. This shows how crucial shelter is for survival in marine ecosystems, especially for young and vulnerable creatures.

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