Here we see a small shoal of Tire Fish collecting algae in their center collecting chambers often allowing the algae mass to triple in size prior to consuming it. It is thought that Tire Fish evolved to collect and store algae in this manner for times when they can find no food, or when they get stuck on a mud flat.
Tire Fish are round, with a uniform width throughout. The skin is black and scaleless. On mature specimens the skin is smooth and rubbery. The central collecting chamber is uniformly round and is open on both sides of the fish. Since the Tire Fish is round it has no head or tail. No beginning, and no end. The edges of The Tire Fish are studded with rudimentary fins called tread. The tread pattern varies depending on the region where the Tire Fish comes from. As the fish ages the tread is worn smooth from the action of it’s circular swimming motion. Tire Fish have been observed swimming horizontally and vertically.
This photo shows a Typical Tire Fish in a marine environment. Note the rudimentary fins or tread on it’s edge.
These researchers are part of a tag and release project studying Tire Fish migration patterns.
This photo shows a rare “Vertical Cotillion” where Tire Fish gather prior to migrating to their breeding grounds. It is believed that these “Cotillions” provide Tire Fish with an opportunity to get to know, and flirt with each other in the form of a constantly rotating partner exchange. Prospective mates have been observed rubbing against one and another, even bouncing into each other, and then moving on to another individual in a constant rotation that may take weeks to complete. Eventually most find mates and they begin the migration to their mating grounds.
Tire Fish Mate in huge shoals that look like a sexual free for all. Although they mate in a massive rolling group together, each breeds with it’s mate only.
Some Tire Fish get flattened and battered in the mating crush. Here an ichthyologist is collecting flat and battered Tire Fish which will be moved to a marine aquarium for study and rehabilitation. Upon returning to full health those Tire Fish collected will be reintroduced into the habitat they were taken from. It should be noted that very few juvenile or Tire Fish fry have ever been seen in the wild. They just appear as adults in waters across the globe.
Tire Fish do not make good marine or fresh water aquarium pets.
While they have no commercial or recreational value, The Common Tire Fish is an important member of any aquatic ecosystem.
