ZooWeird 69

A doggerel series about odd or little-known animals.

Rosy-lipped batfish.  The rosy-lipped batfish can be found in the waters surrounding the Cocos Island, off the shore of Costa Rica—hence the species’ other common name “Cocos batfish.” It inhabits sand and rubble substrate and occurs in depths ranging from 35 to 150 m (114—494 ft). Like the red-lipped batfish, the rosy-lip has bright red lips, its most distinctive characteristic. The fish has a depressed head that is elevated above the disk-shaped body and a pointed snout, with a horn-like rostrum, projecting well forward between the eyes. The body is covered by leathery skin and features protruding bony spines on the back, unlike the red-lipped batfish, which has a smooth back. Individuals have an average length of about 15 cm (6 in.). They have (like the red-lipped batfish) highly modified pectoral and pelvic fins, which allow them to walk on the ocean floor. When swimming, they are slow and clumsy. On a side note, the spotted handfish walks and swims in a similar fashion. The Cocos batfish is carnivorous, with its diet consisting of benthic worms, crustaceans (like shrimps & crabs), gastropods and small fish. (All animal info from http://www.strangeanimals.info/2014/07/rosy-lipped-batfish.html#ixzz4XkpA0vvH)

Just off the Costa Rican coast

You’ll find these weird and reddish dudes.

They are not really prone to boast—

Or share their squirmy, wormy foods.

Just do not get too close to them—

You get too close, well, some disgrace.

To every batfish—her or him—

The challenge is to kiss your face

With those big rosy-lips so wet

A single kiss will wreck your day.

So if they come, your safest bet?

As swift as swiftness, swim away!