1. Clicks and Snaps: Many fish, especially those that hunt in murky waters, make clicking or snapping sounds with their jaws, teeth, or special sound-producing organs. These sounds can be used to stun prey, navigate, or communicate.
2. Grunts and Groans: Some fish produce grunting or groaning sounds by vibrating their swim bladder (a gas-filled organ that helps with buoyancy). This is often used for territorial displays or attracting mates.
3. Whistles and Squeals: Certain fish, like the pufferfish, can make whistling or squealing noises by expelling air from their gills or mouths.
4. Stridulation: Some fish, like the toadfish, create sounds by rubbing their pectoral fins against their bodies or bones, similar to how crickets chirp.
5. Bioluminescence: Some deep-sea fish can create light through bioluminescence, which can be used for communication, attracting prey, or confusing predators. While not strictly a sound, it can be a form of communication.
6. Other Sounds: Some fish even make bubbles, taps, and other sounds using various methods, such as scraping their teeth on their bones.
It's important to note that not all fish make sounds, and the sounds they make can vary widely depending on the species.
Scientists are still learning about the full range of sounds fish make and how they use them.