Pohjakaloja

Pohjakaloja, often translated as bottom-dwellers or benthic fish, refers to fish species that primarily inhabit the seabed or the very bottom layers of aquatic environments. These fish have evolved a variety of adaptations to suit their specialized lifestyle. Many possess flattened bodies, allowing them to lie flat against the substrate, while others have developed barbels or sensory organs to detect prey in murky conditions or in the absence of light.

Their diets vary greatly, but often include invertebrates such as crustaceans, mollusks, and worms found on the seafloor. Some pohjakaloja are scavengers, feeding on dead organic matter that sinks to the bottom. Their coloration is frequently camouflaged, blending with sand, gravel, or rocks to avoid predators and ambush prey.

Examples of pohjakaloja include various species of flatfish like plaice and sole, as well as anglerfish, grenadiers, and many types of sharks and rays. These fish play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by controlling populations of benthic invertebrates and serving as a food source for larger predators. Their presence and abundance are indicators of the health of the seabed environment.