What specific physical structures do some wrasses employ as 'anvils' for smashing hard-shelled prey?
Answer
Rocks or coral fragments
Certain species within the wrasse family demonstrate advanced cognitive behavior related to feeding efficiency, specifically involving tool use. When targeting heavily armored prey such as clams, sea urchins, and crabs, these fish utilize durable external objects found in their environment. These objects are employed as anvils—a hard surface upon which the prey can be repeatedly struck or smashed open to access the edible insides. The materials used for these anvils are specified as rocks or fragments of coral.
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