Tarpon

Photo: Rachel Andres-Beck · CC BY-NC

Tarpon are ancient, air-breathing fish capable of inhaling atmospheric oxygen directly via a modified swim bladder, which audibly bubbles near the surface when they gulp. At Devil's Grotto they are year-round residents, drifting through the chambers with an almost languid grace belied by their predatory speed when silversides are present. Their large, mirror-like scales reflect torch beams in flashes, creating a spectacular effect in the cave's low ambient light.