What is the primary function of the relatively modest pectoral fins?
Answer
Primarily assisting with steering and subtle positional adjustments near the bottom.
The primary drivers for movement in the Atlantic Wolffish are concentrated in the posterior half of its body, powered by undulation from its elongated trunk and supported by the extensive dorsal and anal fins. The pectoral fins, situated behind the gills, are relatively modest in size and serve a supportive role rather than a propulsive one. Their main function is to assist the fish with detailed steering maneuvers and making subtle positional adjustments necessary for maintaining position or navigating close to the uneven bottom substrate.

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