Fish proves a wolf in sheep’s clothing

A small Australian fish has shown itself to be a real wolf in sheep’s clothing by changing colour to mimic its neighbours.

The dottyback takes on the appearance of other fish so it can sneak up and eat their young, scientists have discovered. While mimicry is common in nature and practised by animals ranging from cuckoos to butterflies, this master of disguise takes it to a new level.

The coral reef fish is able to change colour in different ways to match whatever species it is hunting. Different types of damselfish are one of its favourite targets.