What function does the dark, contrasting coloration serve in its habitat?
Answer
Disruptive camouflage against dark rock or rubble.
Unlike many shallow-water butterflyfish that utilize bright colors for territorial displays or species recognition in clear, bright water, the coloration of *C. daedalma* functions as disruptive camouflage. This strategy is adapted for the deeper, shadowed regions of rocky reefs and offshore islands where the fish naturally dwells. The highly contrasting yet muted pattern of the dark body overlaid with pale netting works to break up the fish's silhouette when viewed against backgrounds composed of dark rock, rubble, or the deep water column itself. This suggests an evolutionary pressure favoring concealment over conspicuous signaling in low-light environments.
Related Questions
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