In the Maldives, large fruit bats—often called flying foxes—are a common sight at dusk. As they leave their roosts to forage, you can often see them flying low over lagoons, open water and also swimming pools. One documented behavior is their ability to skim the waters surface to wet the fur on their chest or…
You are not fascinated by sea cucumbers? Wait until you read this. Self-disembowelment When threatened by predators like crabs, some sea cucumbers can forcefully expel their internal organs through their anus. This can include parts of their intestines, respiratory trees and reproductive structures. It sounds like a high-stakes defence, right? Here is how it works.…
Some of the most dramatic transformations in the Ocean happen as fish grow: juveniles often have patterns, colors and shapes that look completely different from the adults they will become. A significant metamorphosis that involves physiological and behavioral changes, sometimes including a shift in habitat, and can take months or even years. This incredible…
In most species the motto is the bigger the better. The biggest and strongest animal becomes the leader of the group. This is not the case for the little goby. It goes on a diet to not become bigger than the leader and here is why. In the goby colony, the largest fish is the…
How do corals make baby corals if they can’t move? Great question! Corals may be stuck in place but they have a special way of making babies. It is a phenomenon called coral spawning. Only once a year on carefully timed nights, influenced by temperature, moon cycles, and sunset many coral species release millions of…
Are you struggling to keep your hair under control during a scuba trip? Multiple dives a day, combined with prolonged exposure to salt water, sun and wind can be really though on your hair, causing damage, dryness, and breakage. Here is a simple, yet effective dive hair-care routine to follow before, during, and after your…
Have you ever found shells with holes on the beach? Did you wonder how they come about? Pierced shells are more than just a natural wonder. They tell the tale of predatory behaviour in the ocean. Also they play an essential role in maintaining the balance of the marine ecosystem. I love walking along the…
When you start diving and your eyes are not yet that well trained to spot specific marine life, lionfish and moray eels are probably the most recognizable and first creatures you find and get excited about. At least that’s how it was for me. Let’s have a closer look at lionfish. Did you realize that…
In nature, everything is interconnected and life doesn’t exist in isolation. On our wonderful planet there are more than 10 millions different species of animals. They share the same habitats and the same resources. In order to survive, or sometimes just for convenience, many creatures establish lifelong relationships with a completely different organism. A bond…
Yes, fish can talk to each other using various methods, including sounds, chemical signals, bioluminescence, gestures and motion. These methods help them coordinate activities like schooling, mating and avoiding predators. Sounds: Many fish produce a variety of sounds by vibrating their swim bladder or using other structures like teeth or muscles. These sounds can be…