The Peacock Flounder or Bothus mancus is a master of camouflage. These saltwater fish found in the Indo-Pacific have the ability to constantly change colors and patterns to match the sea floor. A recent scientific study has proven that it takes just 8 seconds for their bodies to completely blend into their surroundings! Scientists even used a checker board, which the flounder matched with ease. You can see this amazing transformation for yourself in the video below.
Like other species of Flounder, these fish start their lives with eyes on BOTH sides of their bodies, but as they grow older these eyes actually move to one side to give them the ability to settle down flat on the surface and blend in. When in danger these fish will bury themselves in the sandy bottom with just their eyes exposed. This particular flounder can grow to about 18" (45cm) in length and is quite edible. It is sometimes known as the Flowery Flounder and is a flatfish from the Bothidae (lefteye flounders) family.
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