Highhat

A small adult Highhat hiding beneath a reef ledge

Highhats are a reef fish species that can easily be identified by their black and white striped bodies and their mostly black, elongated dorsal fin. Additionally, the pectoral, anal, and tail fins are completely black. highhats change shape and color dramatically from the juvenile to adult life stages. The juvenile stage is characterized by an extremely long dorsal fin, almost two to three times longer than the adult stage. Older juveniles also have an oval marking between the eyes.  Adult highhats are anywhere between five and eight inches long.

The scientific name for the highhat is Pareques acuminatus and they belong to the family Sciaenidae, or drums and croakers.  The common family names are derived from their ability to vibrate muscles surrounding their swim bladder to produce a low-pitched sound.  Highhats have a large distribution and can be found from North Carolina, through Florida, the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and down to Brazil.  This fish species is found on nearshore and offshore reefs ranging from 15 to 75 feet.  Highhats are nocturnal feeders mainly consuming small invertebrates, crustaceans, and fish.  In the day, they congregate under reef ledges and at the front of caves.  The most interesting aspect of the Highhat is its shape and coloration.  Its black and white pattern is by no mistake.  The dark stripes on the highhat are disruptive markings that serve to hide the eyes and confuse predators and prey.

References: Humann, Paul, and Ned DeLoach. Reef Fish Identification: Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas. Jacksonville, FL: New World Publications, 2002. 412-413. Print.