MELICHTHYS NIGER (Indian Ocean triggerfish)
PU1249
MELICHTHYS NIGER, commonly known as the Indian Ocean triggerfish, is a benthic species, meaning it lives close to the rocky bottoms of tropical reefs and feeds directly on the substrate.
As with most taxidermied fish, a meticulous recoloration was carried out in order to restore the slate-blue shades and the distinctive scale pattern of the species.
Mounted on a brass base inside a glass display, the specimen is accompanied by two calcareous sponge skeletons (Clathrina sp.). In nature, the living tissues of these small sponges completely cover this mineral framework; only once dried does their very fine, almost geometric porous network become visible.
The whole composition forms a marine curiosity, both scientific and decorative — perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the cabinet of curiosities.
As with most taxidermied fish, a meticulous recoloration was carried out in order to restore the slate-blue shades and the distinctive scale pattern of the species.
Mounted on a brass base inside a glass display, the specimen is accompanied by two calcareous sponge skeletons (Clathrina sp.). In nature, the living tissues of these small sponges completely cover this mineral framework; only once dried does their very fine, almost geometric porous network become visible.
The whole composition forms a marine curiosity, both scientific and decorative — perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the cabinet of curiosities.
This unique piece has been sold...
