Thorny oyster mantle
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Thorny oyster mantle
Thorny oyster mantle. Thorny oysters (Spondylus varians) are filter feeders and are common on steep reefs and walls. Along the edge of their mantle are simple eyes (small dots, upper right). When these detect an approaching threat, the oyster quickly closes its shell. Photographed off Raja Ampat, West Papua, Indonesia
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6350899
© GEORGETTE DOUWMA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Bivalve Colourful Eyes Indo Pacific Indonesia Mantle Mollusc Molluscs Mollusk Mollusks Open Opened Opening Orange Oyster Papuan Raja Ampat Shell Southeast Asia Thorny Oyster Tissue West Papua
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intricate beauty of a Thorny oyster mantle in all its glory. The vibrant orange hues and delicate patterns on the shell immediately draw you into the fascinating world of this marine creature. Found commonly on steep reefs and walls, Thorny oysters are filter feeders that play an important role in maintaining the balance of their oceanic ecosystem. What sets these remarkable creatures apart is the presence of simple eyes along the edge of their mantle, as seen by small dots in the upper right corner of the image. These eyes act as vigilant sentinels, detecting any approaching threats to which they respond swiftly by closing their shells for protection. Taken off Raja Ampat, West Papua in Indonesia, this photograph showcases not only nature's incredible diversity but also highlights Southeast Asia's rich aquatic biodiversity. The detailed close-up allows us to appreciate every aspect of this mollusk's biology - from its colourful exterior to its intricate tissue structure. Georgette Douwma skillfully captures both artistry and scientific precision through her lens, providing us with a glimpse into a mesmerizing underwater world that exists beneath our oceans' surface. This stunning image serves as a reminder of how interconnected our planet is and how vital it is to protect and preserve these fragile ecosystems for future generations.
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