Sea snail attacking Portuguese man-of-war
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Sea snail attacking Portuguese man-of-war
Violet sea snail (Janthina janthina, centre right) attacking a Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia utriculus). The violet sea snail, or bubble raft shell, produces a float of mucus-covered bubbles that provide it with buoyancy. It feeds on floating organisms. The snail takes its name from the violet dye it releases when disturbed. The Portuguese man-of-war is a colonial hydrozoan rather than a single organism. Members of the colony have specific functions. One member inflates to provide the float, and each stinging tentacle is one dactylozooid
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6466341
© GEORGETTE DOUWMA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Attack Attacking Carnivore Carnivorous Horizontal Hunting Mollusca Poisonous Predation Predator Surface Toxic Venomous Physalia Utriculus
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print captured by Science Photo Library, we witness a thrilling encounter between two fascinating marine creatures. At the center-right of the frame, a vibrant violet sea snail (Janthina janthina) fearlessly attacks its prey - a Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia utriculus). The violet sea snail, also known as the bubble raft shell, possesses an ingenious method of transportation. It creates a float made up of mucus-covered bubbles that grant it buoyancy in the water. This clever adaptation allows it to effortlessly navigate the surface while feeding on floating organisms. Interestingly, this remarkable creature derives its name from the stunning violet dye it releases when disturbed. A true marvel of nature's artistry! On the other hand, we have the Portuguese man-of-war - not actually an individual organism but rather a colonial hydrozoan with specialized members within its colony. One member inflates to provide the float structure while each tentacle serves as a dactylozooid equipped with stinging capabilities. This mesmerizing image captures both predator and prey engaged in an intense struggle for survival beneath tranquil waters. The venomous tentacles of the Portuguese man-of-war contrast sharply against the delicate beauty and determination displayed by our fearless violet sea snail. Through this extraordinary snapshot, we are reminded once again of nature's intricate web and how even seemingly small creatures can engage in epic battles for their existence in our vast oceans.
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