ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Acoustic communication in fish

Fish can make sounds just like humans can. But instead of using their mouths and vocal cords, fish use different parts of their body to make sounds. For example, some fish use their swim bladder to produce sounds. This is a special organ that helps fish control their buoyancy in water. By vibrating their swim bladder, fish can create different types of sounds.

These sounds are important for fish because they use them to communicate with each other. Just like how humans use words to talk to each other, fish use their sounds to send messages to other fish. They can use these sounds to warn other fish of danger, attract mates, or establish territories.

Fish can also use their sense of hearing to listen for sounds in their environment. They have a special organ called the inner ear that helps them hear sounds in the water. This is important for fish because it allows them to detect sounds that might signal danger or the presence of food.

Overall, acoustic communication in fish is an important way they use to communicate with each other and interact with their environment. By making and listening to sounds, fish can navigate their way through the water and survive in their underwater world.