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Channel for lovers of rivers, seas and oceans. Dive with us!
Did you know that some octopuses glow? 🧬
There are several species that can luminesce, including this rare seaweed octopus. These amazing creatures are more active at night and under blue light reveal some stunning features, like their incredible yellow eyes 😮
Octopuses are cephalopods, a group of mollusks that also includes squids and cuttlefish. They are known for their intelligence, with some species able to solve puzzles and even use tools! 🧠
The seaweed octopus (Octopus cyanea) is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific. It gets its name from its ability to camouflage itself among seaweed and coral reefs. When threatened, it can change color and texture to blend in with its surroundings 🌿
So next time you're snorkeling or diving, keep an eye out for these incredible glowing octopuses! 🤿
Reef Shark 🦈
The only species of the reef shark genus from the family of grey sharks in the order Carcharhiniformes. They inhabit the Indian and Pacific Oceans and can be found at depths ranging from 1 to 330 meters. The maximum recorded length is 213 cm. The tips of their fins are white in color.
Reef sharks are known for their distinctive white-tipped fins, which help them blend in with the vibrant coral reefs they call home. These sharks play a vital role in maintaining the balance of the reef ecosystem by preying on smaller fish and keeping the population in check. Despite their fearsome reputation, reef sharks are generally cautious and avoid humans, making them a fascinating subject for divers and marine enthusiasts.
Baby Octopus 🐙
A newborn octopus is smaller than a millimeter in size. After 40 days, they grow to 12 mm long. 🌊
Did you know? Baby octopuses are called hatchlings. They are incredibly tiny when born, but grow rapidly in their first few months of life. 🐣
Octopuses are cephalopods, a group of marine animals that also includes squids and cuttlefish. They are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and ability to change color and texture to blend in with their surroundings. 🌈
The largest species of octopus is the Giant Pacific Octopus, which can weigh up to 15 kg and have an arm span of 4.3 meters. On the other hand, the smallest species is the Wolfi Pygmy Octopus, with an adult size of only 1.5 cm. 🐙📏
Coonstripe Shrimp 🦐
These unique shrimp species inhabit the Pacific coast of North America. They are characterized by distinctive stripes along their bodies, giving them a one-of-a-kind appearance. Coonstripe shrimp are also fascinating due to their behavior and ecological role in the marine ecosystem.
Juvenile Harlequin Sweetlips 🥰
This adorable fish is a species of marine ray-finned fish known as sweetlips, belonging to the subfamily Plectorhinchinae, one of two subfamilies within the family Haemulidae, the grunts. It inhabits the Indo-Pacific region.
Interestingly, sweetlips get their name from their large, fleshy lips that resemble those of a koi fish. As they mature, their coloration and patterns change dramatically, making them a fascinating addition to any aquarium. 🐠
While not a primary target for commercial fishing, sweetlips are occasionally caught and can be found in the aquarium trade. They are generally peaceful and can be housed with other non-aggressive fish species in a well-maintained tank. 🌊
Armina semperi 🐌
This is a species of sea slug, a nudibranch, a marine gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Arminidae. There is one variety, Armina semperi var. erythraea Pruvot-Fol, 1933.
Armina semperi is a colorful and fascinating sea slug found in the world's oceans. Known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, this nudibranch is a favorite among underwater photographers and marine biologists alike. With its delicate appearance and unique adaptations, the Armina semperi is a testament to the incredible diversity of life in our seas.
Solenostomus paradoxus, also known as the Harlequin Ghost Pipefish 🧬
This rare and enigmatic fish belongs to the family Solenostomidae. Its name combines two intriguing epithets.
First, "ghost pipefish" refers to the fish's unique anatomical feature - an elongated snout that it uses as a feeding apparatus.
Second, "harlequin" alludes to the vibrant and colorful patterns adorning this extraordinary creature. The combination of these words creates a peculiar name that aptly describes this unusual organism. 🐠
Did you know? The Harlequin Ghost Pipefish is a master of camouflage, often resembling floating algae or seagrass to avoid predators.
Ranina ranina 🦀
The front claws resemble pliers, while the other claws are flat and covered with numerous short bristles. Its color varies from orange to red.
The frog crab moves forward and backward, unlike other crab species that move sideways.
Longspine Porcupinefish 🐡
A species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Diodontidae. They are found in tropical and subtropical waters of all oceans. These unique fish have the ability to inflate their bodies by swallowing air or water to deter predators. Their spines are also slightly venomous for added protection. 🌊🐠
Southern Moray Eel 🐟
Nocturnal hunter dwelling on the Great Barrier Reef and in New Zealand. These eels can grow up to 2 meters long!
Being carnivorous, they primarily feed on fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods. Known to be voracious eaters, they use their powerful jaws and sharp teeth to catch prey.
🐟 Owl Fish 🌊
Named for its large eyes relative to its head size, the owl fish inhabits the northern Pacific Ocean. These species belong to the family Bathylagidae and are relatively common in the deep sea, living at depths of over 6000 meters. In Monterey Bay, we observe these fish at depths ranging from a few hundred meters to over 2000 meters.
🌊 Deep Sea Dwellers 🌊
Owl fish are well-adapted to life in the deep ocean. Their large eyes help them detect the faintest glimmers of light in the dark depths. These fascinating creatures are a testament to the wonders that lie hidden beneath the waves. 🌊
Harlequin filefish 🎭🔴
Colorful and vibrant, small and delicate, motionless and resembling coral, they blend in so seamlessly with their surroundings that they live up to another name - ghost fish.
Harlequin filefish are often associated with sea urchins and sea horses, although they are a separate, independent species - the most beautiful in their family.
Harlequin filefish swim only upside down and are unable to travel long distances. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, where they inhabit coral reefs and feed on small invertebrates. These fascinating fish are known for their ability to change color and pattern to match their surroundings, making them masters of camouflage.
Triopha modesta 🐌
This is a species of sea slug mollusk that inhabits the coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to California. It got its scientific name due to its modest pattern of brown and golden hues on its shell.
Stonogobiops nematodes 🐟
This is a species of goby fish found in the Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. Known for their unique appearance and interesting behavior, these small fish are popular in the aquarium trade. They are typically found in shallow, coastal waters where they inhabit sandy or rubble bottoms. Stonogobiops nematodes are known to form symbiotic relationships with certain species of shrimp, sharing burrows and working together to maintain their shared home. 🏠🦐
Amur Mudminnow ✨
Another small but interesting fish found in the Amur River basin. Despite belonging to the subfamily of carp, its mouth structure is unusual for typical carps: it has a terminal mouth, not a ventral one.
Fun fact: The Amur Mudminnow is known for its ability to survive in a wide range of water conditions, including low oxygen levels, making it a hardy species in the river ecosystem.
Chloeia Flava 🪱
This marine worm lives on the ocean floor. Its body is made up of numerous segments that can curl into a ball. The worm boasts stunning colors, including yellow and orange hues. Chloeia Flava inhabit the coastal waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Did you know? These worms are hermaphrodites, meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs. They play a vital role in their ecosystem by breaking down organic matter on the seafloor.
🐠 Platies
A genus of Indo-Pacific reef fish belonging to the family Ephippidae. Currently, five extant species are known, which are typically assigned to this genus. They are one of the fish taxa widely known as "batfish".
These unique fish are characterized by their distinctive appearance, with elongated fins resembling wings, giving them a bat-like appearance. Batfish are found in various colors and patterns, making them a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts.
Scalyhead Sculpin 🐟
The Scalyhead Sculpin is a bottom-dwelling marine fish species belonging to the family Cottidae, which includes the typical sculpins. This species is found in the eastern Pacific Ocean. 🌊
Fun fact: Sculpins are known for their unique appearance, with large heads, wide mouths, and often spiny fins. They are also important predators in their ecosystems, helping to control populations of smaller fish and invertebrates. 🐠🦀
Goniobranchus geometricus 🧬
This is a species of colorful sea slugs, nudibranchs, marine gastropod mollusks belonging to the family Chromodorididae. Known for their striking patterns and vibrant colors, these sea slugs are a fascinating sight to behold underwater. 🌊🐚
Did you know? Goniobranchus geometricus can be found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, where they feed on sponges and other small marine organisms. Their bright coloration serves as a warning to potential predators of their toxicity. 💀🌈
These incredible creatures are a testament to the beauty and diversity of life in our world's oceans. 🌍🐠
Narwhal 🦄
The narwhal, also known as the unicorn of the sea, is a unique and captivating creature. Its distinctive appearance, characterized by a long, spiraled tusk protruding from its head, has fascinated explorers and researchers for centuries. Narwhals are intelligent and graceful animals, thriving in the coldest regions of our planet. They are found in the Arctic waters of Canada, Greenland, Norway, and Russia, where they navigate through the ice with ease. Narwhals are known for their deep dives, reaching depths of over 1,500 meters in search of food such as fish and squid. Despite the harsh conditions they live in, narwhals have a remarkable ability to adapt and survive, making them a true wonder of the natural world. 🌊🐳
Butterfly Telescope Goldfish ✨
A selectively bred variety of goldfish. Suitable for keeping in spacious aquariums, greenhouses, and decorative ponds. Prefers the company of its own kind, bright light, and an abundance of free space.
Did you know? The Butterfly Telescope goldfish is known for its unique double tail and flowing fins that resemble a butterfly's wings when swimming. 🦋 Their protruding eyes, called "telescope eyes," give them a distinct appearance. These goldfish are believed to bring good luck and fortune in many Asian cultures. 🎎
Papilloculiceps longiceps 🐟
The crocodile fish belongs to the family Platycephalidae. All its representatives have a flattened head and an elongated body that tapers towards the rear. The head is covered with bony ridges, spikes, and spines.
🌟 Interesting fact: Despite their fierce appearance, crocodile fish are actually quite docile and pose no threat to humans. They are ambush predators, waiting patiently for their prey to come close before striking with lightning speed.
The Saltwater Crocodile 🐊
A large modern reptile belonging to the family Crocodylidae of the order Crocodilia. It is the largest representative of its order and the biggest terrestrial or coastal predator. These formidable predators can grow up to 23 feet long and weigh over 2,000 pounds. They are excellent swimmers and can even swim in ocean waters. Saltwater crocodiles are ambush hunters, waiting patiently for their prey to come close before launching a surprise attack. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from northern Australia to the eastern coast of India.
How many eggs does an octopus lay? - 80,000 🐙
The eggs are spherical and grouped together in clusters of 8 to 20. After fertilization, the female creates a nest in a burrow or crevice in shallow water, where she lays up to 80,000 eggs. The female always takes care of the eggs, constantly ventilating them by flushing them with water from her siphon. With her tentacles, she removes foreign objects and dirt.
Deepstaria 🧬
A genus of jellyfish known for their thin, sheet-like bodies. The genus is named after the Deep Star 4000 submersible, on which the holotype of the type species D. enigmatica was collected. These unique jellies are found in deep waters around the world and can grow up to 60 cm in diameter. Their translucent, bell-shaped bodies are equipped with delicate tentacles for capturing prey. 🌊✨
Giant Sea Spiders 🕷
These creatures inhabit the ocean floor of the cold continent. They are subject to a unique phenomenon known as polar gigantism, which causes them to grow to enormous sizes.
Did you know? 🤔 Polar gigantism is a phenomenon where animals living in cold climates grow much larger than their relatives in warmer regions. This is thought to be an adaptation to help them conserve heat and survive in extreme conditions.
🦈 Albino Rainbow Shark 🌈
This striking fish has bright white coloration and striking red eyes. It can grow up to 6 inches long and is typically kept in larger aquariums. In the aquarium hobby, this variety is popular for its eye-catching appearance and unique personality. 🐠
Did you know that despite their name, rainbow sharks are not actually sharks? They are a type of freshwater catfish native to Southeast Asia. Males develop more vibrant colors as they mature. 😮
Diamondback Squid 🦑
A large species of squid from the family Thysanoteuthidae, found worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters. T. rhombus gets its name from the appearance of its fins, which run the entire length of the mantle. This is a fast-growing species with a lifespan of about 1 year.
Did you know? The Diamondback Squid is known for its striking diamond-shaped patterns on its body, hence its common name. It is also a popular food source for many marine predators, including tuna and billfish.
Common Catfish 🐟
Common catfish inhabit the bottom of water bodies, usually finding a quiet spot - a hole between logs, and settling there. They don't stray far from their chosen hole even during hunting, and spend a significant amount of time right there. They rarely change their habitat and can even spend their entire life in one place.
Did you know that catfish have excellent senses of taste and smell, which helps them locate food in murky waters? They are also known for their distinctive whisker-like barbels on their faces, which they use to navigate and search for prey in the dark. 🌊
Decorated Anemonefish - Thalassoma pavo 🐟
One of the most abundant species in Mediterranean rocky habitats and highly suitable for home aquariums. They are brightly colored, grow up to 20-25 cm, quickly adapt, and start eating within a day.
Fun fact: Decorated Anemonefish have a unique relationship with sea anemones, providing them with nutrients and protection in exchange for shelter.