Species and Gender Identification: Colors and patterns help in recognizing species and gender for social and breeding purposes.
Reflective Cells: Reflective skin cells help open water fish blend with the surface, evading predators.
Counter-Shading: Darker topsides and lighter undersides camouflage fish from above and below.
Mimicry: Some fish imitate the colors of toxic species for protection.
Camouflage: Fish colors help them blend with their environment, aiding in hiding from predators.