Here's why they keep their eyes open during this resting state:
* Lack of Eyelids: Fish don't have eyelids, so they can't close their eyes.
* Constant Vigilance: In the wild, fish need to be constantly vigilant for predators and food opportunities. Keeping their eyes open allows them to react quickly to danger or opportunities.
* Oxygen Intake: Fish get oxygen from the water through their gills. Keeping their eyes open allows them to maintain a good flow of water over their gills for oxygenation.
So, while fish don't sleep in the same way we do, they do enter a state of reduced activity and responsiveness, and they do it with their eyes open.