This is a black dorid (Polycera atra) that I caught feeding on some bryozoans I collected for my thesis. I have caught at least four different species of nudibranch (sea slugs) as I am collecting their main food source, but I think this one is my favorite for its coloration. These nudibranchs tend to e a little toxic, as they concentrate the toxins from their food source in their tissues, so the beautiful patterns are used to warn off would-be predators. Some nudibranchs take a different route, and use their coloration to blend in with their food source so well, it is hard to see them even when you look very closely.
I love nudibranchs! This one is beautiful. Shame on it for eating your homework!
ReplyDeleteWowee, that's WEIRD! lol!
ReplyDeleteI did yellow today, too! I hope you can come visit.
http://ilovenewyorktravel.net/photo-hunters-yellow/
Have a great weekend!
Very cool!!! I commend you for getting your masters in Marine Bio!! I got my BS and said enough already :)
ReplyDeleteMine is up over at Flo's Place.
That is so cute! :)
ReplyDeleteCool!
ReplyDeleteOur chiropractor's office has a large aquarium and we always follow the goings on of the fish in it. Friday morning, I was looking over and noticed something small flitting about. On closer inspection it appeared that there were at least two baby fish in the tank. Apparently, there were at least 5 but it appears that they are down to two... We are all hoping that the two manage to avoid the other grown-up fish until they are too big to eat.
It is the first time I have seen baby tropical fish "on the hoof" so to speak.
Fascinating...but YOU can keep it!
ReplyDelete