This Rainbow-Colored Fish Is Born Female But Turns Into A Male Later

The rose-veiled fairy wrasse ( Cirrhilabrus finifenmaa ) was discovered by scientists around the waters of the Maldives. Found 40 and 70 meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean, this fish sparks extra attention not just because of its colorful body, but also because it exhibits the phenomenon of sexual transformation, which is rare in nature.

Deep-diving scientists have found this unique fish in the mesophotic (or twilight) zone of the ocean. In an interview with The Guardian , Dr. Yi-Kai Tea (postdoctoral fellow at the Australian Museum Research Institute in Sydney) says, “The mesophotic zone is one of the least explored regions in coral reefs. This area is generally situated at an awkward depth – not deep enough to survey with submarines, too complex to trawl and dredge, and too deep to dive with traditional scuba techniques.”

h/t: [ The Guardian ]

According to The Guardian , “In order to photograph and collect specimens in the mesophotic zone, scientists use specialised diving gear that recirculates exhaled air rather than blowing bubbles straight into the water as regular scuba divers do. By carefully controlling the mix of gases, scrubbing out excess carbon dioxide and adding more oxygen as required, rebreather divers can extend their dives to 100 metres.”

This fish begins its life with vivid purple scales and, as it turns into a male, its body starts changing colors. The male species finally obtain rainbow-like colors in adulthood.

Saumya Ratan

Saumya is an explorer of all things beautiful, quirky, and heartwarming. With her knack for art, design, photography, fun trivia, and internet humor, she takes you on a journey through the lighter side of pop culture.