Creature Feature Encyclopedia: Osteichthyes

Zebra Fish Brachydanio rerio

The zebrafish inhabits shallow warm waters around reefs and rocks. It is found from the Red Sea through the Indian Ocean to Australia and the Pacific. Its brightly colored pectoral fins are its most distinctive feature. The zebrafish can grow to be 12 inches in length, and has long spines on its back. These dorsal spines carry the deadliest poison of any fish and provide protection from predators. The zebrafish spends its time hiding in reefs or between bottom growths with its fins folded, waiting for unsuspecting prey. When a small fish swims nearby, the zebrafish darts forward with lightning speed to capture its prey. No wonder Seamore is in such a hurry to zip away!

~A Swim through the Sea © 1994