Part 2/5:
As dawn breaks, schools of fish eagerly swim to meet the returning hippos. Each hippo is traced by a following of these aquatic creatures, all hoping to feast on what the hippo has to offer. It’s not just the hippo’s droppings that attract the fish, but a more intricate relationship arises when the water-dwelling creatures invade the hippo's space.
A Cleaning Service in Action
At a designated spot in their aquatic environment, hippos often come to a standstill, allowing the fish to engage in a cleaning ritual that benefits both parties. These fish, dubbed "cleaner fish," expertly remove ticks, parasites, and other unwanted elements from the hippos' skin. The hippos appear to take pleasure in this sensation, demonstrating a relaxed demeanor as they undergo this unique form of grooming.