| Learning Objectives/Lesson Goals | In this activity, students will see what challenges this method of camouflage creates for predators. The hatchetfish adjusts the light on the rows of light organs on the underside of its body to blend in with the faint light from above. This helps to hide it from predators lurking below. |
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| WHERE | Classroom |
| WHO | Classroom Volunteers |
| MATERIALS |
- Wrapping paper with a two-colored pattern
- Plain wrapping paper (1 roll in each of the colors that match the colors in the pattern)
- Scissors
- Tape
- Hatchetfish Template
PREP:
Cut 10 fish shapes out of each of the 3 types of paper.
Attach the fish to the “environment,” matching its shape to the background as well as possible. Attach this to the wall of your classroom.
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| ACTIVITIES |
- Break the classroom into two groups and give each group 15 seconds to “hunt” in the habitat. (Have them stand a few feet away).
- After the hunt, ask:
- How many fish did your group find?
- What color fish did you find the most of?
- Was it harder to find the patterned fish? Why?
- Show video about the bioluminesce of hatchetfish: https://youtu.be/9jpMq8Jttn8
- Explain how the hatchetfish adjusts the light on the rows of light organs on the underside of its body to blend in with the faint light from above. This helps to hide it from predators lurking below
- Give each student a copy of the Hatchetfish worksheet and let them add glow in the dark glue to the bottom side of their fish, where they think it will be most helpful
- Have them cut their fish out
- Be sure they write their name on the back
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| RESOURCES | http://amnh.org/creatures-of-light |
