Unique Phenomenon Caused By Tiny Crystals In Their Body
Japan, Apr 8: Researchers at Hiroshima University in Japan discovered a unique phenomenon of reflecting lights of blue and yellow colour by the wide-banded hardyhead silverside fish (Atherinomorus lacunosus). When steady light shines on the back of the fish, little spots are formed that shine from blue to greenish-yellow. While analysing this phenomenon in the fish, they found dots of about seven to ten micrometres in size across their back. Inside those reflecting flash dots were lying little platelets of the compound guanine that had grown in such a way that they could reflect colourful light depending on the angle. The reason for this feature of reflecting of light is still unknown. The researchers feel that it could be a way of communication or a safety measure against their predators.
