Introducing Dory: One of the Most Adaptable Fish Species

Dory is a very popular species of fish that has been known primarily as a supporting character in the 2003 Pixar film, Finding Nemo. While this character may be broadly recognizable, there is a lot to learn about the real species of fish behind the silver screen. In order to help increase understanding of Dory and the types of fish that belong to this genus, let’s explore the inherent qualities found in deep-sea species and their tremendous resilience.

Physical Attributes and Adaptability of Dory

Dory belongs to the Zeidae family of fish, comprised mostly of mid-sized demersal species, also known as benthic, or near-bottom. Dory fish present a variety of physical features that vary between species, including a blunt head and an eyespot near the anterior portion of their dorsal fin. These species vary in size, and their length typically ranges from 12 to 16 in—though a few species may reach upwards of 25 in. Oftentimes, they’re found in the northwestern and central parts of the Atlantic Ocean.

Most species in the Zeidae family are widely recognized as very adaptable fish, able to move freely through a variety of depths, climates, and habitats. Among the species within this family, fish such as the saury, ouvarov and cornet are widely consumed in some parts of the world.

Availability, Population & Preservation

Taking a closer look at Dory in particular, today this species has extended beyond the waters of the Atlantic, with some populations found in the Indian Ocean and the Western Pacific. In terms of population and availability, Dory fish is considered to be a moderately- fished species, with most of today’s caught specimens collected by line, mainly from small-scale commercial exploitations. In certain parts of the world, such as in the European Union, this fishing practice is under strict regulation, in order to preserve the species’ population levels.

To help protect the species, organizations such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have developed several programs and initiatives, which aim to increase profiling of the Zeidae family and all of its species, in order to conserve and protect them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dory is a remarkable fish species that have adapted to a variety of environments, during countless years of evolution. Its wider population is mostly found in areas of the Atlantic and western portions of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Although it is a moderately-fished species and one that’s viewed as importantly nourishing for some regions, initiatives promoting population protection and conservation of Dory, alongside other species of the Zeidae family, need to remain a priority.