Scientists reveal how eels apparently jump out of the water when it is cornered by a predator and press their chins to the threat to release powerful electric shocks, so powerful than the electric shocks produced underwater.

In this new study, researchers from Vanderbilt University in Tennessee led by biologist, Kenneth Catania, have observed that during experiments, when the eels are about to be transferred using a net with a metal rim, the creatures would try to leap and and escape by pressing their chins on the net handle where they administer their electric shocks.

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Many animals produce electric currents however, the eel specializes in identifying small and large electric conductors and with this net, the eel seems to determine it as a large conductor or even a large predator, that disturbed and entered into the confined living space of the eel.

Scientists observed the eel's defensive behavior when Catania placed the eel in a series of experiments involving different conditions for attacks. Results revealed that when eels are fully underwater, these electric pulses can disperse underwater. When the eel is only partially submerged on water, electric shocks become more concentrated, travelling to the eel's chin, then leaping towards its target. From underwater, the electric current travels from the tail and then the eel leaps out of the water to zap its victim.

Apart from this, the team also observed that the larger the predator or threat, the eel would leap higher and release a higher voltage and amperage than it normally produces underwater. This strategy allows the eels to deliver the highest and most powerful electric shocks it can produce to disable the target and let it fall underwater. This can also allow them to electrocute a larger part of the target's body.

Researchers also found out that eels are more likely to ta attack invaders in more shallow water levels to limit escape route for targets.

This new study is published in the journal,  Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Tagselectric eels, eels, leaping eels, electric shocks eels, eels leap from water