Learn more about fish groups, known as shoals, made up of a few individuals to millions
Listen to this article
•
15:34 min
What are fish shoals?
Fish shoals are groups of fish that may range from a few individuals to millions in size.
Why do fish shoal?
Fish shoal to avoid predators as well as improve food access and hydrodynamic efficiency. With increased eyes, it is easier to find food and spot predators. Swimming with other fish may reduce water resistance, allowing them to conserve energy moreover strength in numbers allows access to territories of aggressive fish, eg. parrotfish entering damselfish territory.
What is the difference between fish shoals and fish schools?
When fish shoals swim in a highly coordinated manner and consist of only one species, they are called fish schools. Sardines, anchovies and mackerel are known to school.
About the Authors
Wenzel Pinto
is a marine biologist at the Nature Conservation Foundation and is currently working on reef dynamics and island vulnerability in the Lakshadweep archipelago.
