Bigeye Trevally

Photo: Dennis Rabeling · CC BY-NC-ND

Bigeye trevally form enormous rotating bait-ball formations above exposed thilas, using the current to maintain position with minimal energy expenditure while opportunistically feeding on small fish and invertebrates swept through by the flow. These aggregations serve as anti-predator mechanisms, confusing sharks and larger trevally that attempt to pick off individuals from the school. Their schooling behaviour over thilas creates one of the Maldives' most visually dramatic dive experiences.