Anableps

Anableps 

(four-eyed fishes), a genus of viviparous fishes of the family Anablepidae of the order Cyprinodontiformes. The body length is 15–20 cm (rarely to 30 cm). The cornea and retina of the eyes are divided by an epithelial septum into upper and lower divisions. The upper part is adapted for vision above the water. Hence, the fishes, which usually swim near the surface, are able to see over and under the water simultaneously. There are two known species of four-eyed fishes, inhabiting lagoons in Central America and northern South America. The fishes feed on small invertebrates, mainly flying insects, found in the water or above the water’s surface. Fertilization is internal; one to five fry, measuring 4–6 cm long, are born.

REFERENCES

Zhizn’ zhivotnykh, vol. 4, part 1. Moscow, 1971.