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Coelacanth |
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First seen alive by scientists in 1938, the coelacanth is a classic example of a "living fossil," since it belongs to a group that was thought to have died out over 65 million years ago. It is found at depths of 500-2,300ft, along rocky slopes with submarine caverns, swept by strong oceanic currents. It has a large, thick, heavy scaling with iridescent white flecks, muscular paired fins, & an unusual tail with an additional central lobe. The pectoral fins of the coelacanth are highly mobile, and it uses these to maneuver into crevices to reach fishes & other prey. Populations are poorly documented & estimates are difficult, but susceptibility to capture by humans & a restricted habitat range have made the coelacanth an endangered species. It also has a cousin, The Indonesian Coelacanth, which is also endangered. Coelacanth: Length: 5-6 feet Weight: 145-220 lb Sex: Male/Female Location: W. Indian Ocean Status: Endangered Indonesian Coelacanth: Length: 5 1/4 ft Weight: 145-220 lb Sex: Male/Female Location: Pacific (Celebes Sea) Status: Endangered - entry provided by Jazz Knowles, Jazzy@hotmail.com
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