When you think of counting, most people tend to think of humans counting. However, in the realm of outer space, one impressive species also shows proficient counting skills: the spacebar counter.
The spacebar counter is a deep-sea fish found in the South Atlantic and Indian Ocean that is capable of counting repetitively up to five objects. The aquatic species has a wide head with small eyes and a flat body that allows it to hug the ocean floor for better protection from predators. With two dorsal fins located at its rear, it also has an additional bonus feature: its ability to count with taps on its headbell.
This clever little fish uses its customized apparatus called a headbell to accurately recognize and count nearby sounds including other fishes' bodies, currents and vibrations from predators or prey. To count, the fish simply taps its headbell three times -each increment representing an object- using tiny bumps inside the mechanism called denticles (fine teeth). With this, the spacebar counter has been given the nickname "the mini-me mathematician" for their uncanny abilities to calculate.
Surprisingly enough, this fish can even distinguish familiar numbers such as individual mumbling voices or claps that reach up to five repetitions; thus further showcasing their precocious counting skills. New research offers leads us to believe they apply their newfound knowledge while feeding - estimating how many sinks are left in a school before retreating safely from danger. Not only is this showoff impressive on land yet in deeply submerged waters as well! What more could you ask for?
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