http://www.nature.com/srep/2013/130701/srep02106/full/srep02106.html
We report that male pufferfishes (Torquigener sp., Tetraodontidae)
constructed large geometric circular structures on the seabed that
played an important role in female mate choice. Males dug valleys at
various angles in a radial direction, constructing nests surrounded by
radially aligned peaks and valleys. Furthermore, they created irregular
patterns in the nest comprising fine sand particles. The circular
structure not only influences female mate choice but also functions to
gather fine sand particles in nests, which are important in female mate
choice. Strangely enough, the males never reuse the nest, always
constructing a new circular structure at the huge cost of construction.
This is because the valleys may not contain sufficient fine sand
particles for multiple reproductive cycles.
cheers #AV
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Figure 1: Male pufferfish, Torquigener sp.
The male is digging a valley with its fins and body. Photograph by K. Ito at Seisui on 23 April 2012.
