Comet (fish)

The comet or marine betta (Calloplesiops altivelis) is a species of reef-associated tropical marine fish in the longfin family Plesiopidae, most commonly found between 3 to 50 m deep. It is native to the Indo-Pacific Ocean. It can reach a maximum length of 20 cm.

Behaviour

Adults are usually found near reefs, and in caves and crevices along drop-offs. The comet is nocturnal by nature, and will hide under ledges and in holes by day. During night time, it leaves its hiding place and swims along the reef searching for food. They possess an eye-like shape which is actually the dorsal fin. When in danger, this fish will poke its head into a hole and expose its tail end, which mimics the head of the moray eel.

Feeding

Comets are predators, feeding on crustaceans and small fish. They catch their prey by approaching it swimming sideways and then waiting for the prey to try to escape. As the prey tries to escape on the side of the fish, it will escape towards the fish's mouth half the time.