Mermaid’s purses are tossed ashore

As winter approaches, the sea gets rougher and mermaid’s purses are more likely to be washed ashore. This is the nickname for the leather-like cases that once held fish eggs. They are usually empty, but you might find one with a baby inside. Mermaid’s purses, which look a bit like seaweed, differ depending on which species’ egg it contains. Each pod has spikes or curly strands at either end. Square or rectangular egg cases with spikes are usually from skates or rays. The spikes help to anchor the case to soft seafloors of gravel, mud or sand, where these fish prefer to lay their eggs. Tube-shaped cases with curly tendrils (left) are usually from sharks – the female uses the strings to attach the purse to seaweed.…

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The Week Junior (Digital) - 1 Issue, 362

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