Batfish

Photo: Kai Squires · CC BY

Longfin batfish congregate in loose aggregations around the Sanko Maru's mast and crow's nest, drawn by the shelter of the superstructure and the abundance of plankton drifting through the harbour. Juveniles mimic dead leaves in shallower rubble zones before maturing into the striking disc-shaped adults that greet divers at mid-water. They are remarkably curious and will often approach within arm's reach, making close observation effortless.