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How do fish make electricity? - Eleanor Nelsen

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13,906 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

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Nearly 350 species of fish have specialized anatomical structures that generate and detect electrical signals. Underwater, where light is scarce, electrical signals offer ways to communicate, navigate, find, and sometimes stun prey. But how do these fish produce electricity? And why? Eleanor Nelsen illuminates the science behind electric fish.

What is one way the electric eel can increase the intensity of the electric charge it delivers to its prey?

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Eleanor Nelsen
  • Director Franco Barroeta Fonseca
  • Script Editor Eleanor Nelsen
  • Producer Franco Barroeta Fonseca
  • Art Director Franco Barroeta Fonseca
  • Animator Vidal Barrera
  • Illustrator Vidal Barrera, Eduardo Sandoval
  • Sound Designer Christopher Bullé-Goyri
  • Associate Producer Elizabeth Cox, Jessica Ruby
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Narrator Julianna Zarzycki

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