Blane Perun Snorkeling is an activity that provides an excellent opportunity to explore the world of the sea in the shallow waters near the coast, where wildlife is very abundant. However, the experience can be enjoyable only if you have appropriate equipment and you use it appropriately, so here are a few tips about how to take
In Mozambique, coral reefs can be found while exploring the entire shore, revealing a rich and active underwater world that has remained pristine for thousands of years. From the waters of Zanzibar up north, to the shores of Madagascar and down to the southernmost reaches of Mozambique’s coastal areas, beautiful atoll and barrier reefs can
The Madagascar coral reefs are a part of a rich and diverse ecosystem that features some of the most stunning and vibrant species of marine creatures, with live coral covering most of the reef formations and a wide variety of fish and other marine creatures found thriving here. The island also features one of the
If you visit French Reunion, coral reefs are among the first attractions local diving centers will tell you about. The reefs themselves, as well as the marine biodiversity of the area are surprisingly rich and can provide you with some of the most stunning places to explore. Reunion features rich coral formations located to the
Most islands and locations close to Madagascar are excellent areas for exploring the rich marine life in the area, and when it comes to French Mayotte, coral reefs can be found here in larger quantities than almost any nearby island. Taking a detour to this small, but exciting island can be one of the best
The Eritrea coral reefs are among the most popular in the world due to their ability to maintain themselves as stable and resilient in the face of many changes. This important fact places them among the most special coral reef formations in the world. Like most coral formations in the Red Sea, these corals are
Comoros is a small island with a significant reef area that stretches out for miles and features some of the most beautiful and diverse coral reef formations in the southeastern area of the Indian Ocean. Clear waters and beautiful, multi-colored fish dominate the area, and divers can enjoy an extensive reef area featuring many different
The Zhemchug Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world, and there are many special features that set it apart from any other canyon you may have read about. This canyon is not only entirely submerged under the Pacific Ocean, but its size is so great that it can only actually be seen
The Antikythera mechanism has been a true enigma for scientists for the past 100 years or so, since its discovery at the dawn of the 20th century. The mechanism is a complex analogue computer made up of a series of gears and parts that would have been considered cutting edge even in the early 1900s.
On March 26, 2012, film director James Cameron made history once more by venturing into the Mariana Trench – the deepest point in the Pacific Ocean and the world – in a record braking trench dive to the Challenger Deep. Cameron managed the feat equipped with a cutting edge deep-sea submersible called the Deepsea Challenger.
Japanese puffer fish are among the most controversial and enigmatic species of fish found in the waters of Japan. The species is primarily known for the intricate circles that the fish create at the bottom of the ocean – which have actually been discovered by startled researchers only a few years ago. The circles have,
It is believed that lobsters can live for up to 100 years and reach 4 ft. in length, qualities that rank them among the largest and most long-lived creatures of the sea. Marine biologists actually have a term to refer to such large and long-lived beings: biological immortality. Lobster species vary considerably in size. The
The pistol shrimp is one of the tiniest and, at the same time, most ferocious creatures of the deep sea. Though pistol shrimps are not longer than a human finger, they are incredibly “loud” and effective predators, with bodies that display special features and special abilities – here are just a few of them. Pistol
Whales are among the largest creatures on Earth and certainly the largest creatures of our seas. Some of these wonderful animals are the size of a small island and, like any island, they make a good habitat for a number of parasites, whale lice being the ones that are the most common company for whales.
Crabs are crustaceans covered in a hard exoskeleton and having five pairs of legs, the first pair being modified into a pair of claws. There are more than 4,500 different species of crabs known to scientists today, most of them inhabiting shallow areas of salt water, fresh water or brackish water, but some living completely
Crabs are very special for a number of reasons, making scientists take special interest in the study of their organs and the way they function. The compound and complex eyes of crabs are certainly among the most studied organs of crustaceans. Here is what makes the crab’s eye so special. Crabs prefer murky and muddy
Shedding and moulting are very common forms of behavior in the animal world. All mammals, including humans, are known to shed, that is, to get rid of hair and skin as a means to cope with or prepare for seasonal changes, while crustaceans undergo a process called moulting during which they get rid of their
Lobsters are a family of large crustaceans dwelling the world’s seas. They have been around for millions of years. The first predatory lobsters probably roamed the primeval oceans and it was millions of years ago that they switched to the omnivorous lifestyle that characterizes them today. Lobsters are invertebrates. They have a hard exoskeleton, an
Dive Deep into the Heart of Cayman: An Underwater Odyssey Diving in Cayman is not just an activity; it’s an experience that captivates the soul and immerses you in a world of vivid corals, mesmerizing marine life, and tranquil blue waters. The Cayman Islands, located in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, are renowned
Discover the Underwater Paradise: Diving in Curacao Embarking on a diving adventure in Curacao is like stepping into a vibrant underwater kaleidoscope. This Caribbean gem, nestled just off the coast of Venezuela, is a sanctuary for divers of all levels, thanks to its crystal-clear waters, thriving coral reefs, and an astounding array of marine life.
Discover the Underwater Marvels: Diving in Turks and Caicos Diving in Turks and Caicos is an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Caribbean’s underwater paradise. This archipelago, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and diving excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or looking to
The deep sea is a special and very harsh environment for a number of reasons, one that only the hardiest creatures of the sea can dive into. However, diving deep, to the deepest layers of the ocean is no problem for sea turtles – these amazing creatures have sturdy and adaptable bodies, their incredible ability
Sea snakes are reptiles of extraordinary hardiness and adaptability. These aggressive creatures not only protect themselves by biting and releasing the deadliest venom of all snakes, but they also have features that allow them to survive under the harshest circumstances and to find food where no other animal can. Sea snakes belong to a family
Crocodiles are large reptiles that live in numerous habitats, from Australia and the Americas to Asia and Africa, and have the reputation of being very strong and aggressive. Some species of these top predators, such as the Nile crocodile and most saltwater crocodile species, are indeed dangerous and aggressive, while others, such as American crocodiles,
Beaked sea snakes, also known as hook-nosed sea snakes or common sea snakes, are among the deadliest marine creatures in the entire Indo-Pacific region. Found mainly in the Arabian Sea, in the Persian Gulf, in the seas around Bangladesh, Pakistan and India, around Australia, New Guinea, Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand, as well as around Seychelles
The study of marine wildlife is not only able to shed light on the feeding and proliferation habits of the different species dwelling the seas and oceans, but it is also aimed at mapping their evolutionary history. While some aquatic species have emerged as the result of evolution from species that are no longer recognizable
The majority of the world’s iguanas belong to land species, the only exception being the marine iguana of the Galapagos. This creature is unique in its choice of habitat, but not only: marine iguanas display some truly amazing forms of behavior, such as sneezing, even! Let’s take a closer look at them! Scientists think that
Crocodiles, these reptiles of various dimensions and considered to be extremely ferocious predators, are widespread around the world, yet their proliferation rate is very slow and infant mortality high, making them highly endangered species. Crocodiles reach sexual maturity at around the age of 8-10, but size is also a decisive factor – in most cases,
Sea turtles are marine reptiles that have evolved millions of years ago from terrestrial turtles and have developed numerous features that allow them to spend their entire lives in the water. Being reptiles that breathe with the help of lungs, turtles need to come to the surface to get air, but some species, such as
Jellyfish are commonly known as “jellies” and are some of the most fascinating underwater invertebrates you will ever set eyes on. Translucent, appearing to be like actual “ghosts” of the ocean, they have some of the most uncommon anatomical traits that allow them to survive quite well without any brains, skeletal structures, eyes or even
A true symbol of the sea, the starfish is one of the most remarkable creatures you will find in the depths of the underwater world. This curious little echinoderm has many special features and qualities, one of the most impressive of them being its ability to regenerate its own missing limbs over time. Even though
Sponges are among the most fascinating creatures of the sea. For a long time, there was a debate about whether or not they should be classified as an animal at all, with many researchers believing they have more plant-like qualities. The fact remains that the sponge is one of the most basic form of multicellular
Deep-water creatures, and most especially some invertebrates, are widely renowned for their ability to keep themselves alive longer than any other living creature on the Earth. Some of these species, such as deep-water sponges, certain types of jellyfish and clams, or the famed long-finned eel, are among the deep sea creatures who are able to
While many people are aware of the large number of invertebrates that populate our planet, you might not have thought about the fact that some of these strange looking creatures might actually hold the key to curing some of our most prevalent and debilitating diseases. Certain types of insects and land invertebrates, as well as
Ever since we were children, we were fascinated by how caterpillars could become beautiful butterflies through the process known as metamorphosis. What most people don’t know, however, is that many species of invertebrates go through various stages of metamorphosis, either partially or completely. Although there are still many unanswered questions about how the process evolved
What most people know about invertebrates usually has to do with their unique development, evolution, and the fact that they have no regular skeletal structure to support their bodies. However, an equally important and unique fact about invertebrates that is, however, far lesser known, is that they have quite unique digestive systems and eating patterns.
Invertebrates are among the most fascinating creatures in the world, and they also make up most of the animal life known today. From insects and centipedes to crustaceans, crabs, worms and leeches, invertebrates account for a large part of all species of animals on the Earth. Their unusual anatomy – most especially their nervous systems
Coral reefs are carnivores, or, to be more precise, being a community, an ecosystem, not an animal, they actually give home to carnivores (predominantly). The majority of the species that inhabit the reefs are predators, feeding on other animals or scavengers, feeding on the particles of dead animals. Even most of the species categorized as
When you look at a coral reef, the most striking feature and at the same time the quality that attracts the eye the most is the bright, beautiful and varied coloring of the coral formation. Many people think that corals are colorful in themselves, but this cannot be further from the truth – here are
Coral reefs may look as if they were made of stone, but in fact they are the creation of very sensitive creatures. The animals that make up a coral reef are called polyps – they can be microscopic or large, but no matter what size they are, they are the essential, most basic building blocks
Sharks are considered to be incredibly dangerous animals by the general public, with many people being scared just to look at them. The majority of sharks do look scary, indeed, with sharp teeth, small eyes and a muscular and powerful body. Combine this appearance with the bad name given to sharks by horror movies, and
Coral reefs look like rocky, underwater formations and many people think they are just that: ridges of strangely shaped, stone-like growths that extend over a certain area of seabed. However, a coral reef isn’t a “thing” – it’s actually a community of living beings, many of them invisible to the naked eye, yet making up
The Pacific Ocean is a large and overwhelming body of water that would discourage even some of the most prolific navigators from trying to cross it without stop – and especially without too many resources. Yet, the bar-tailed godwit, a large migratory bird that winters on the coasts of Australia and New Zealand and breeds
The osprey is one of the most interesting and somewhat underrated type of large raptors that can commonly be found in many areas around the entire world, except for Antarctica. It is also known by the name of “fish hawk” or “sea hawk.” The bird is extremely versatile and can tolerate a very wide range
The colossal squid is one of the more unique seafaring creatures ever discovered. Its eyes alone measuring about 27 cm in diameter, this creature of truly mythical proportions has appeared in legends and stories throughout various cultures from around the world for many years. Together with its cousin, the giant squid, colossal squid have one
A significant part of why marine mammals have such an impressive ability to use their lung capacity is the unique way in which they utilize oxygen, as well as their greater tidal range. These qualities, enhanced by their anatomy, which has adapted perfectly to life in the ocean, are the key components for explaining how
Water is one of the most vital elements on Earth. Taking up more than 70% of the entire planet’s surface, our oceans have a complex and dynamic inner structure that we are seldom able to witness in action due to its sheer immensity. One of its most significant feature is its network of currents that
When in quest for the most imposing tide differences in the world, researchers have discovered a bay in Canada to have the highest known tides on Earth. The Bay of Fundy tides have been recorded at a constant rate of well above 10 meters in most of the areas of the bay, being largely caused
It’s common knowledge in the scientific community that refined measurements show the North American plate is actually drifting away from Europe, thus making the Atlantic Ocean wider and the Pacific smaller. Slowly growing at a rate of about an inch per year, the distance between the two continents is theorized to have been caused by
Although they can’t be seen, deep ocean volcanoes are the most prevalent in the world. In fact, well over 80% of all volcanic activity happens deep below the ocean surface, where volcanic eruptions occur only in certain locations where tectonic plates meet and where formations such as the mid-ocean ridge system is situated. These volcanoes
With more than 40 species of soft corals belonging to it, the Sarcophyton genus is among the largest in the coral world. The species in the genus are also known as toadstool corals or toadstool leather corals and they are widespread in the Indo-Pacific region, around South Africa and in the Red Sea. These soft
Fungia corals, also known as short-tentacle disc corals or plate corals, are large, flat and rounded solitary corals, widespread in the Western region of the Indo-Pacific. Fungia corals are round, dome-shaped or elongated and they can grow as large as 12” in diameter when left in their natural habitat. The elongated corals can be easily
Euphyllia is a genus of stony corals that comprises a number of different species and sub-species, all of them characterized by having large polyps. Euphyllia comprises several species, the ones below being the most important: Paraancora – also known as the branching hammer coral, this species is wide-spread in the Indo-Pacific area. These types derive
With their brightly colored feathers, their long legs and their graceful looks, flamingos are among the most easily recognizable water birds. They derive their name from the Spanish word “flamenco”, meaning “with the color of flame” and they are flame-colored, indeed, but many of these beautiful birds go through episodes of discoloration, so the question
Walrus, these huge marine mammals to be found mainly in the Arctic Ocean, around the North Pole, and in seas on the Northern hemisphere, are well-known for their characteristic appearance and strange way of movement: these bulky animals have huge tusks and thick, long whiskers and, when it comes to pulling themselves out of the
So here’s the deal: what most Hollywood directors in charge of popular pirate movies don’t tell you is that they didn’t really make people walk the plank back in the days of Blackbeard, Avery or Black Sam – famous pirates that have actually sailed the seven seas. While, on rare occasion, this form of execution
The skull and crossbones flag has become a symbol of pirates everywhere, and while it was actually used by pirates in the 1700s, its popularity has remained intact in the 300 years to follow, the flag being made known through real pirate tales, as well as novels and legends alike. The Jolly Roger is the
We are annoyed by noise every day. The cars that pass us in the street are too loud, the neighbor’s dog barks too loud, rock concerts are too loud, and so on and so forth. However, it is the sea, the environment that is supposed to have the most calming effects on our nerves, that
The storm petrel is known to be the smallest seabird in the world. With its body not exceeding 26 cm and weighing a few grams only, these tiny seabirds are incredibly hardy and they can be found in all oceans and in most seas on Earth. Storm petrels are similar in size to sparrows and
Seabirds drink only sea water, but never get sick – this is perhaps one of the most special and most interesting facts related to the life of marine birds and certainly one worth taking a closer look at, along with a number of other phenomena related to the extraordinary survival strategies adopted by seabirds. Marine
Sea otters are small-sized marine mammals living on the eastern and the northern parts of the North Pacific area, on the coast. Adult otters can reach the weight of almost half a quintal, which makes them the heaviest in their family (weasels), but they are still the smallest of all marine mammals. Sea otters hunt
“Sea bird” is the common name used for the wide variety of marine bird species that have adapted to the conditions provided by the seas and oceans on Earth. Some sea bird species are pelagic – that is, they prefer the open sea – while others live on coastlines. They vary largely in terms of
Although it’s “common knowledge” that pirates and hidden treasures often went together, historians and experts can tell you that pirates rarely buried treasure, most of them considering it to be simply impractical. Not only did the seamen fear that someone else might find the treasure and run away with it, but most of them would
Many storytellers, historians and authors alike agree: grog was a pirate’s drink. But what secrets and mysteries are behind this legendary drink that pirates – and lately, pirate aficionados – have held in high regard for almost three centuries? Although, in many cases, the drink has been altered, or even associated with other beverages that
The gray whale is a migrating baleen, a close relative of dolphins, but much larger and much more ferocious – hence its old name, “devil fish”. Dwelling mainly the eastern and the western areas of the North Pacific region, these huge mammals are descendants of the filter-feeding whales that developed 30 million years ago and
The Golden Age of Piracy is a controversial period in history that has seen the rise to a veritable zenith of buccaneering and looting, mainly in the Caribbean, in places like Tortuga and English Jamaica, as well as along a variety of trade routes linking the New World to Spain, England and France. Also fueled
The term dolphin is actually the collective name that includes 43 different species, out of which 38 live in marine habitats and 5 in rivers – such as the Pink Dolphin that lives in the Amazonas. Dolphins are found in almost every ocean on Earth, with the exception of Arctic and Antarctic waters. They all
Cormorants are large, long-necked, migrant water birds found in numerous habitats from Alaska to Mexico, from Europe to Asia and Africa. There are only two continents where cormorants are not found: the Antarctica and South America. The term cormorant actually refers to about 40 different species of aquatic birds, most of them marine species, but
The medium-sized sea bird called the Arctic tern is famous not only for its slender, elegant appearance – their body is white and grey, their beaks and legs are bright red and they wear a black nape – but also for their extraordinary migration patterns: Arctic tern travels round trip from the Arctic to the
Blue whales are among the most amazing creatures on Earth and certainly the largest of them all. It is said that a blue whale’s heart is as big as a small car and their tongue weighs more than an elephant – yet, they feed on one of the smallest of all marine species, the krill.
Most pirates had a strong belief in Davy Jones, some claiming “Davy Jones’ Locker” is a real nautical term referring to sailors dying at sea. In a sense, the locker was actually accepted as a valid nautical term by many sailors and officers during the 1700s, being associated with death later on. Although the origins
Discosoma, also known as mushroom corals or elephant-ear corals, is a genus with lots of sub-species most commonly found in the Indian Ocean and wide-spread in the Pacific region as well, mostly in places that get moderate water flow and filtered light. It is not a true coral, but a corallimorph, sharing certain features with
Montipora is known as an easy coral to grow and maintain in reef aquariums. The coral is a genus in the rank of species called phylum Cnidaria. The species are capricornis and dilatata. Considered a good beginners coral, they grow into the shapes of ridges and plates and commonly appear as bowls or flowers to
Briareium, also known as Star Polyp, Starburst Polyp, Mat Coral or Pacific Encrusting Gorgonian, is a coral species widespread in the Atlantic Ocean just as much as in the Pacific, mostly on reefs around Solomon Islands, Bali and Jakarta as its natural habitat. A member of the Clavulariidae family and one of the hardiest coral
You think of chemosynthesis when it comes to considering the processes through which various organisms living in the ocean are able to produce food; but what is chemosynthesis, really, and how does it relate to other biological conversion processes such as photosynthesis? Discovered as early as 1890, by Sergei Nikolaevich Vinogradskii, chemosynthesis is a process
Mauna Kea volcano is the highest point of Hawaii and the highest point of Earth, too. Though only a portion of 4,205 meters of the volcano is above the sea, with its height of more than 10,000 meters measured from the ocean floor Mauna Kea is taller than the tallest mountain on contiguous continents, Mount
If you’ve heard the term “kelp forest animals” and you’re curious about it, you may, first of all, be wondering what kelp actually is. Well, it is a large seaweed that grows to cover huge areas on the substrate of the ocean. They prefer the shallow waters close to the coast, usually not deeper than
We hear more and more often about the damage caused by the large ocean waves called tsunamis. They appear all of a sudden and sweep away everything on the shore line – we all know that much, but what are, in fact, these huge waves and how do tsunamis form? Tsunami is a Japanese word
Seaweeds, these colorful and diverse marine algae are among the most important forms of life on Earth. The term seaweed does not refer to a single species; it is much rather the common name for a huge range of marine and freshwater species that form the very base of aquatic food chains. They serve not
It can be hard to imagine that pools of water can actually form under the ocean, just like at the surface, where we have lakes and seas, but that is precisely what brine pools are. These unique pools are formed of hypersaline water and have been found throughout the world, at various locations, in some
It is actually an established fact that sound travels faster in water than in the air, but the statement that sound travels faster in the ocean requires further discussion, for there are a number of factors to consider before the statement can be backed with numbers. When it comes to determining the speed of sound
The Pacific Ocean garbage patch, also called the Pacific trash vortex, is a large rotating system of currents in the central area of the North Pacific Ocean where a huge quantity of marine debris is deposited. The size of the area is not precisely determined, estimates ranging between 700,000 and 1,500,000 square kilometers, but, roughly,
The mid-oceanic ridge is one of the most impressive structures on Earth. Stretching across the entire planet, it is actually barely visible due to the fact that it is almost entirely underwater. The ridge is extremely important from a geological standpoint, as well as in terms of its extensive size and the influence it has
When it comes to looking at how oceans affect the climate, it is very important to point out that our Earth’s climate is made up of an extremely complex set of processes that are influenced by a wide variety of different factors. Making up more than 70% of the planet’s surface, however, oceans and their
Many who have heard about the area known as the deepest point in the Pacific Ocean would ask: how deep is the Mariana Trench and why is it considered to be so important? Before answering that, we have to look at what the trench itself really is and represents. It is also meaningful to take
There is much to say about ocean currents and their impact on the environment, as well as their interactions with weather patterns and a number of unique events such as the formation of polar ice; but how are ocean currents formed, and what are they, really? Currents can be created by a number of different
The largest city and the capital of the Czech Republic, Prague has been an important cultural, scientific and political center for most of its 1,100 years of existence. Founded around the 7th century, enjoying permanent growth and development until the end of the 19th century, the city became the capital of the Holy Roman Empire
Platygyra is a genus belonging to the Merulinidae family of stony corals. These are often called maze brain corals due to their external walls and valleys which resemble the shape of a brain. These are some of the most recently evolved coral species, with many species being as of yet difficult to distinguish due to
Galaxea is a genus of stony large polyp corals which belong to the family Oculinidae. These corals are often called galaxy corals, fluorescence grass corals and crystal corals. Some representatives of this genus grow some of the largest known colonies. These corals are zooxanthellate, heterotrophic and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. The galaxy corals
Plerogyra is a genus of stony corals belonging to the family Caryophilliidae. These corals have specialized tentacles which form vesicles filled with water that can reach 2.5 centimeters. Due to their appearance they are also called bubble corals. The colonies of the bubble corals have the shape of an inverted cone. The skeletal structure is
Montastrea is a genus of stony corals which belong to the family Montastraeide. These corals are also known as boulder star corals or great star corals. Up until 1994, it was thought that only one species, M annularis, existed, but the anatomical variability was hard to explain. So far, several M. species have been described.
Tubastrea is a genus of stony corals belonging to the family Dendrophyllidae. They are also called sun corals or cup corals due to their aspect when having their tentacles extended and retracted respectively. The sun corals are large polyp stony corals, meaning that they produce a calcium carbonate exoskeleton. However, they do not forma coral
Clavularia is a genus of soft corals which belong to the Clavulariidae family. These are also commonly known as palm tree polyps or glove polyps due to the feathery appearances of the tentacles in some species. These corals get their name from the polyp tentacles which are sometimes surrounded by tiny structures called pinnules. These
Caulastrea is a genus of stony corals which belongs to the Merulinidae family. These corals are some of the easily recognizable species due to their appearance for which they have also earned the name candy cane, trumpet or bullseye corals. The candy cane corals form branching colonies that can reach up to 5 meters in
Favites are a genus of stony corals which belong to the Merulinidae family. These share characteristics with the Goniastrea genus, with the notable difference that their corallites share the same wall while the latter have separate walls. These corals usually form colonies shaped as domes. Size varies from one species to another, with some colonies
Turbinaria is a genus of stony corals belonging to the family Dendrophyllidae. They are also called disc corals, vase corals or pagoda corals. They are one of the three genus in this family that are zooxanthellate, meaning that they live in symbiosis with tiny photosynthetic organisms. These stony large polyp corals get their name from
Bubble coral is the name given to several stony coral species belonging to the genus Plerogyra and Physogyra. These corals get their name from the large vesicles that give the colonies the bubble or grape appearance. These corals form inverted cone-shaped colonies in the seabed. The corals have branches that extend and reveal vesicles that
Alveopora, also called branching flowerpot corals, is a genus of stony corals which belongs to the family Portidae. Members of the genus are generally uncommon and they can mostly be found in turbid waters and on steep slopes of the Indo-Pacific region. Compared to the hard exoskeleton of other hard corals, Alveopora species have a
Aruba Snorkeling The island of Aruba, located deep in the Caribbean Sea, is just off the coast of Venezuela and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean. With sister islands of Bonaire and Curacao, Aruba completes what are considered the “ABC islands.” With over three quarters of the Aruba economy being tourism,
If you want to see the most amazing coral reefs in Vietnam, then Hon Kho is definitely the place of choice. This island is mostly uninhabited and the surrounding waters are teeming with corals, exotic fish and many species of turtles. This island is located less than 10 minutes by boat from the Nhon Hai
Beneath the surface of the sea surrounding Taiwan, hundreds of species of corals spawn their eggs to give birth to new coral colonies. Most of the coastline of Taiwan, which stretches over 1,500 kilometers, and the 85 offshore inlets are rich in coral colonies teeming with life. The Taiwan island is actually encircled by coral
When it comes to counting the number of coral species present and observing how many species of fish and other marine animals it houses, Indonesia is at the heart of one of the world’s richest and most diverse regions in the world. Although its reef populations are quite threatened today as a result of a
Coral reefs can be found along most of the southern coastline of Sri Lanka. However, the reefs that surround the city of Hikkaduwa are perhaps the most easily accessed as well as the most diverse in terms of marine life forms. The calm and shallow waters surrounding Hikkaduwa harbor a coral reef system composed of
The Philippines are composed of more than 7,000 distinct islands, and these are located in some of the richest places in terms of coral reefs in the planet. In fact, the Philippines are ranked 3rd in terms of coral reef area with over 9,000 square kilometers of reef systems, equaling almost 9 percent of the
The Maldives are composed of a series of islands which are in fact coral reef atolls. These islands are surrounded by coral reefs teeming with life, from small fish to turtles and marine mammals such as dolphins and whales. Everyone is familiar with the Maldives beaches, with their fine sand and tall palm trees, but
The Sipadan Barrier Reef is one of the largest coral reefs in the world. Spanning over 580 square kilometers and stretching over more than 95 kilometers, this coral reef is one of the largest marine habitats as well as the biggest coral reef in the entire South East Asia. Visitors going to the Sipadan Barrier
If you’re looking for unique coral reef formations that have withstand the test of time while remaining pristine and largely untouched, some of the finest in Asia can be found near Japan, more specifically, south of the main islands, in regions such as Okinawa, Yaeyama and Nansei Shoto. Near the Okinawa region of Japan, coral
Unlike areas such as China, where despite the country’s large resources and size, the coral reefs existing along the shoreline have had much to suffer in the past few decades, India’s coral reefs have thrived, and over the 8,000 km long coastline, people even depend on it for their livelihood. Located in a warm, tropical
Although China has some of the most imposing coastlines in Asia, the country has recently been struggling to keep its coral reef populations afloat. Even so, the formations found off the mainland, particularly in the South China Sea, are considered to be some of the most impressive on the continent. For a long time, China
Cambodia is one of the few countries in the world that nature has endowed with a truly amazing gift: a rich marine life stretching across hundreds of miles along the mainland’s coast and around the roughly 69 islands that surround the region. What’s even more impressive, however, is the rich variety of coral reefs that
Currently there are only about 1000 species of coral reefs in existence all around the world. While in some areas, such as Hawaii, the Caribbean or the Galapagos Islands, the number of coral reef species can range between a few dozen to a couple of hundred, the small country neighboring Malaysia known as Brunei is
No wonder the Vanuatu diving sites are among the most popular spots in the world – the small country has a lot to offer to those interested in wreck diving and for those fascinated by the special, colorful eco-systems of coral reefs as well. If you want to see corals and interesting marine life, Pango
A remote island recommended for more experienced divers, US Samoa is a chain of seven islands located in the South Pacific Ocean, northwest from the state of Samoa. The fringing reefs nestle an incredibly rich marine eco-system – 2,700 different marine species have been identified so far living on the reefs, and there are certainly
US Guam, one of the five unincorporated territories of the United States is an amazing place for any visitor, but perhaps even more so for those interested in coral diving. The largest island of Micronesia, Guam offers all the beauty of the Pacific Ocean: rich marine life and colors you can see nowhere else in
Tuvalu is certainly one of the smallest countries on Earth, but also one of the greatest places when it comes to exotic underwater sceneries. Being rated among the world’s top dive sites, Tuvalu’s reefs are of unmatched beauty, that’s for sure. The country is comprised of 9 islands, three of them larger reef islands, the
Tonga, this divers’ paradise in Polynesia, is made up of more than 170 islands, out of which only 45 are populated, the rest being desert islands, all surrounded by the bluest of blue waters and coral reefs of incredible beauty. Famous for being one out of only two places where humpback whales can be seen
The Solomon Islands are the northern group of a huge arc of islands delimiting the northeast boundary of the Coral Sea. The archipelago, oriented southeast to northwest, stretches about 1700km between Bougainville in the east of Papua New Guinea and the northern-most islands (The Banks Group) of Vanuatu. The six main islands are: Choiseul; Santa
Papua New Guinea is one of the world’s major coral reef nations, with a vast area of reefs. The total area is probably considerably larger than the figure of 13 840 square kilometers provided here, as many reefs remain unmapped in the present work. Lying on the eastern edge of the great center of coral
Palau, this island country in the West of the Pacific Ocean, has been long fascinating divers interested in rich marine life and special coral formations. Palau’s reefs are rather small compared to famous formations like the Great Barrier Reef, but they are home to incredibly varied marine life species, some of which are critically endangered.
The remote Tokelau island, one of the real jewels of the South Pacific and a territory that belongs to New Zealand, has been only recently discovered by diving enthusiasts looking for new dive sites where they can explore coral reefs and the extraordinary rich eco-systems these reefs offer. The lagoons and the reefs surround the
Diving around New Zealand’s Niue Island is certainly a rewarding experience. The water are crystal clear, offering the diver frequent sightings of endemic fish species, while the coral reef surrounding the island features numerous caves and caverns and boasts one of the richest coral ecosystems in the entire world. The island is surrounded by so-called
New Zealand’s Cook Island and the area surrounding the island is a real heaven for those interested in exploring one of the s richest and most colorful coral reef areas of the South Pacific Ocean and of the world. Composed of fifteen major islands that are spread on an ocean territory as large as 2,200,000
Hydnophora coral originates in the Indo-Pacific ocean, Figi, Tonga, Solomon Islands, the Great Barrier Reef and Eastern Africa. It is considered a Small Polyp Stony coral (SPS) and is considered extremely aggressive towards other marine aquarium invertebrates. The coral is not readily available and never found in abundance. Hydnophora coral is moderately hardy. The skeleton
Euphylla Ancora, also known as Hammer Coral, Ridge Coral, Hammerhead or Anchor Coral, is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral. Its common names are derived from the appearance of its hammerhead or anchor-shaped tentacles. Its polyps are visible throughout both day and night and hide its skeletal base. They breed via fission, which is a
Nauru (Republic of Nauru) is the smallest nation in Asia, an independent, tiny, oval island, situated in the deep waters of western Pacific, close to the equator. Its origins are volcanic, with a coral cliff that rises to a central plateau, which goes to almost 70 m above sea level and represents about 80% of
Mycedium has increased in popularity recently because it forms such interesting shapes, has raised corallites that give it much texture, and often has very bright colors that can really stand out in saltwater aquariums. The hardiness of mycedium is average in terms of difficulty to keep in an aquarium setting, and benefits from variable medium
Commonly mistaken in the coral world as an anemone, Plate Coral consists of rounded flat skeletal disk with long tentacles extending from the top. These tentacles are often brown or green in color, sometimes with brightly colored tips. Plate Coral are unique in that they can swell up their tissues with water and float to
Ricordea are marine organisms in class Anthozoa of phylum Cnidaria typically living in compact colonies of many identical individual “polyps.” The group includes the important reef builders that inhabit tropical oceans, which secrete calcium carbonate to form a hard skeleton. A “head,” which appears to be a single organism, is a colony of myriad genetically
The Star polyps are members of the family Clavulariidae and can be found in many regions of the Indo-Pacific. They are usually white or brown with a white dot in the center of each polyps, although some more rare Star polyps are green. They grow rapidly and are a favorite amongst hobbyists because of their
Stylophora coral is a small polyp stony (SPS) coral that is native amongst the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, including Figi, Tonga, Solomon Islands ad the Great Barrier Reef. Also called Cat’s Paw, Club Finger, Cluster, Brush or Bird’s Nest Coral, Stylophora is extremely adaptable to a variety of different conditions. Stylophora coral has rounded
The scientific name of Torch Coral is Euphyllia glabrescens. It is also commonly known as Grape Coral, Trumpet Coral, Whisker Coral, Branching Anchor Coral or Pom-Pom Coral. Torch Coral is classified as a Large Polyp Stony (LPS) Coral. Its natural habitat originates from the Indo-Pacific region including Figi, Tonga, Solomon Islands and the Great Barrier
Favia fragum is coral that looks much like a golf ball. The favia fragum coral is round and the colonies are never large. The look of the favia fragum resembles so much a golf ball that it is frequently called golf ball coral. Sometimes, favia fragum may be found in groups. The favia fragum coral
Favia is a genus of reef building stony corals which belong to the family Mussidae. Members of this genus usually form dome-shaped or oval colonies, with some species earning the name golfball corals. Contrary to the majority of other stony corals, these mostly inhabit the tropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The colonies formed by
Echinopora, or chalice coral, can be found surrounding the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, including Figi, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. This stony coral has been maintained within captive reef systems in the United States since 1996. Echinopora is a favorite amongst hobby level aquarium enthusiasts. Echinopora requires intense lighting for the
Commonly known as whisker coral or daisy coral, Duncanopsammia is considered rare in the United States, but a common addition to Australian coral reefs. Usually found in deeper water near sandy substrate, it is very adaptable to varying lighting conditions. The color of Duncan can vary from gray-pink to light green on the tentacles, a
Micronesia, which actually means “small islands”, is an archipelago scattered over hundreds of thousands of square miles in the western Pacific. Picture awe-inspiring coral reefs and vibrant azure lagoons, spectacular marine landscape – this place is a haven for divers! It is estimated that the region has one of the world’s highest overall marine biodiversity,
The Marshall Islands represent one of the four “atoll nations” in the world. There are two island chains of 30 atolls and 1152 islands of low coral, sand and limestone. The coral reefs in the area are pristine environments, very little touched by the aggressive hand of man. The marine landscape here is amazing, the
The Republic of Kiribati, in the Pacific Ocean, boasts 33 atolls and coral islands, being considered one of the most unspoiled places in the world. It has some of the most well-preserved coral reefs, forming a pristine ecosystem and a breathtaking marine landscape. Isolated, far from cities and aggressive civilization, scattered over 3.5 million square kilometers
Unveiling the Underwater Majesty: Diving in Roatan Diving in Roatan isn’t just an activity; it’s an immersive experience that introduces you to a vibrant underwater world unlike any other. Nestled in the heart of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, Roatan offers a diverse array of dive sites catering
Wallis and Futuna is a French collective of islands that are located in the South Pacific. They are part of France’s territories, alongside the islands of Alofi. All of these islands are of volcanic origins. Corals are quite abundant in the region. Locals take so much pride in these coral populations that they even feature
French Polynesia consists of 118 islands, out of which over 80 are coral atolls. The region known for its inviting blue waters and abundant coral reefs, but the most popular sites for admiring reef life are Bora Bora and the Rangiroa atoll. Located in the Leeward Society Islands, northwest of Tahiti, Bora Bora is world
Located between Australia and Vanuatu, the New Caledonia Islands are composed of a group of islands – among them, Grand Terre and the Loyalty Islands. These are very popular tourist resorts and diving spots. Still, the region is mostly known for its abundant corals. Actually, Grand Terre is mostly famous for the New Caledonia Barrier
Venezuela’s rich coral reef population, pristine beaches and large natural marine life habitats are known throughout the world, the country being well-known for its many tourist attractions located in the Venezuelan Caribbean Sea – one of the most important and diverse locations for coral reefs in the entire Caribbean. This is also where you can
Considered one of the most beautiful snorkeling destinations in the world, Panama boasts two oceans’ worth of stunning coral reefs populating its shores. From the beautiful, pristine corals located on the western Pacific shore to the widely different reef formations on the Caribbean side of Panama, the country features corals that have mostly stayed unaffected
Ecuador has long been known as one of the world’s richest biospheres, but not necessarily due to the coral reefs present along the coastal area of the Ecuador mainland. The area where you can find the most beautiful, diverse and well-developed reefs in Ecuador is actually represented by the Galapagos Islands, a protected region that
My diving had been a bit limited in 2015, and I was itching to get away for a weekend and decided to hit the keys. I have not been diving here for some years, and my camera rig at that time left allot to be desired. When we arrived it was just like I remembered,
Costa Rica is one of the few countries that have such a rich and diversified array of coral reef communities and formations located along their shorelines. The southern region of Costa Rica’s Caribbean shores boast a wide variety of fringing and patch reefs, as well as carbonate banks. There is also an incipient algal ridge
I’d say over 50% of the time I spend taking photos underwater, I don’t have the right set up. Lights may not be bright enough, subject is too far away, or moving too fast, low ambient light poor depth of field. Despite all of this sometimes you still catch a really great composed shot, but
Colombia is one of South America’s northernmost countries, its shores opening up to the Caribbean, and housing some of the most complex and beautiful coral reef formations in the region. Home to one of among the largest and most important coral reefs located near the Colombian shoreline. The reef covers about 255 square kilometers, and
Here are some of the latest photos using my Samsung Note 5 in Pro Mode. This camera is pretty remarkable considering it’s on a phone. In particular one can adjust the white balance by kelvin temp, not just 4 or 5 presets like you typically see. Combining that with ISO and shutter control you can
What truly makes the coral reefs of Brazil stand out is their amazing structures, which are significantly different from most known coral formations. Brazilian corals were built by a low diversity of coral fauna remnant from the Tertiary and rich in endemic species. They are also known for their unique initial growth characteristic associated with
Thought to be a coral that only expert aquarium keepers should attempt to have in their reefs, carnation coral is almost irresistible to those within the hobby. Also known as Cauliflower Coral or Tree Coral, Carnation Coral originates from the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans. This coral attaches itself to caves, in the ill-lit areas
Of all of the coral predators this may perhaps be the most encountered by the reef aquarist. The Sundial snail (Heliacus Areola) has a very distinct pattern and is fairly easy to distinguish this species from other snails. The pattern almost resembles a checkerboard in some cases. At any rate these snails prey upon Zoanthus
With no exception the sea slugs most certainly provide the most amazing array of both shape and color in all species that inhabit the reef. These animals actually are quite troublesome to keep in captivity because of specific diets, and a short life span. Nudibranches are not a good showpiece for your display and more
Valonia often refereed to as bubble algae is certainly rated high on the aggravation scale. Valonia is said to be the largest single cell organism in the world. The growing ball has no cell wall or internal divisions of any kind. In fact reproduction comes in the form of a brood stock with this algae.
There are numerous amount of shrimp species that are beneficial to the reef aquarium, however this guy is certainly one you don’t want to end up finding. The Mantis shrimp is a serious predator and will feast in the captive reef on small fish and inverts. The shrimp is an intelligent and well developed hunter,
Some starfish are very welcome additions to the aquarium. They are generally detritavores and add a splash of color and character to our reef system. There are the oblivious star fish that you won’t see at your local fish store that are a nuisance to the reef. The Crown of Throne’s Starfish for example with
Similar to Bristle Worms Flat Worms come in a variety of sizes and colors, some breathtaking specimens. Some are truly parasite feeding on corals, while others more of less scavenge feeding on detritus, diatoms, and dead organisms. Non-parasitic flatworms are of no danger, and most die off due to lack of food source in the
Fiji is one of the most beautiful places in the world and a very popular holiday destination. It is also home to a wide variety of coral species. The coral reefs around Fiji are closely monitored by the United Nation’s International Coral Reef Initiative (ICRI). The marine geography and ecosystems of Fiji are very diverse.
Clipperton Island is actually an atoll, one of the many coral atolls in the South Pacific. An atoll is a ring shaped coral reef. These encircle a lagoon (partially or completely) and are often situated on the rims of an extinct volcano, although sometimes it can be a seamount. Most of these coral atolls are
Australia is almost synonymous to coral reefs, thanks to the fact that it’s so close to the Great Barrier Reef and many other such formations – though many forget about other coral communities that are just as amazing as the Great Barrier Reef. This is, as you surely know, the largest coral reef system on
Derbesia otherwise know as hair algae is the most common problematic algae that we encounter in the aquariums. The species forms dark to medium colored green strands. Both reef and fish only tanks experience this form of algae and it’s associated (like others) with high nutrient levels. In no time at all can overtake an
Mushroom coral propagation allows the hobbyist to create new colonies in their own reef system and also trade corals with other enthusiasts. Whenever mushroom coral propagation of existing mushroom corals is attempted, it is a necessity that the entire reef system be healthy and running perfectly, with optimal water parameters and above average conditions. Optimal
Green mushroom corals (Ricordea Yuma) are one of the most common types of mushroom corals, and belong to the Ricordea family. Although it has many common properties of the stony corals, it also resembles anemones, and is grouped just as frequently with soft corals as it is with stony corals in scientific classifications. Other names
Blue mushroom coral is a species belonging to the Actinodiscidae family (although previously of the genus Discosoma) that originate in the waters of Indonesia. Frequently referred to as a Disc Anemone, the blue mushroom coral does share many elements with the anemone, specifically when it comes to reproduction, appearance and composition. The blue mushroom coral
The hairy mushroom coral (Rhodactis indosinensis) is a species in the Discosomatidae family, and a member of the Corallimorpharia order, that is native to the Indo-Pacific oceans. This coral can be found in shades of green, purple, brown and tan, but of all the colors exhibited in the variety of hairy mushroom corals, the green
Mushroom corals are a very safe choice for all levels of reef aquarists and excellent start corals for the novice enthusiast interested in mushroom coral care. They are extremely durable, undemanding, and can be maintained with even the lowest level of assistance. Perhaps most importantly, they are beautiful additions to any tank because of their
The Mushroom Coral (Fungia scutaria) is a specie of the Actinodiscus genus that populates the rocky reefs and seabed of tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans. The mushroom coral is also referred to as a Corallimorphs, Mushroom Anemones, or Disc Anemones because its composition is between the anemones and stony corals. This smaller than average sized
The Actinodiscus mushroom (scientific name for red mushroom corals) is a native to the shallow salt waters of the Central Pacific, Eastern Asia, and South Asia oceans. Like the blue mushroom coral, the red mushroom coral was previously grouped within the Discosoma genus, but is now considered part of the Actinodiscidae family, and will also
I set up this tank in Late April of 2015 and started stalking it in late May. The majority of the corals are leathers and large polyp stony. Things are progressing fast and the livestock doing very well. I have taken everything I have learned and set up one small reef system, that I can
‘Coral reef plants’ is a term commonly used to describe both flowering plants and algae present in coral reefs. Plants serve a vital role in the ecosystem, providing oxygen to others they share symbiosis with, such as corals, as well as eliminating waste and transforming it into glucose and other compounds essential for the ecosystem.
Discover the Underwater Wonders: Diving in Nassau When it comes to exploring the vibrant underwater world, Diving in Nassau offers an unparalleled experience that captivates both novice and seasoned divers alike. Nestled in the heart of the Bahamas, Nassau is not just about sun-kissed beaches and bustling markets; it’s a gateway to some of the
William Beebe was born in 1877 in Brooklyn and died at the age of 85 in Trinidad and Tobago. He was the first person to go deep into the abyss in research of undersea life. William Beebe was fascinated by wildlife since his early years. Lucky for him, the same year he was born, The
The islands of Turks and Caicos are found in the Atlantic Ocean’s Lucayan Archipelago in the West Indies. A British Overseas Territory, the islands feature a total area of 430 square kilometers, and are primarily known for their many tourist attractions and resorts. The islands were first sighted by European explorers in 1512, however, their
If you are interested in maritime archeology and the archeology of shipwrecks, you have certainly heard the name of Robert Ballard, the scientist who explored so many major diving sites on wrecks and came back from these explorations with so much important scientific data. The Bismarck, the Lusitania and the Titanic – these are the
James Cook was an 18th century explorer and oceanographer. For those of you who are asking themselves, oceanography is an earth science that focuses exclusively on oceans. It’s basically geography that excludes the land mass. An innovator in his field, Cook was an expert seaman, navigator and scientist. In 1768, James Cook begins his first
James Cameron is a Canadian film director, mostly known for his movies such as Terminator II, Rambo: First Blood (part II) or Avatar. Besides action films, Cameron is known as the director of Titanic and The Abyss – two movies that bring us closer to the other area Cameron has been so passionately active in:
Jacques Piccard was born in 1922 in Brussels, Belgium. His father, Auguste Piccard, beat the world record twice for getting to the highest altitudes flying in a balloon, and he decided to use the same type of technology, the buoyancy technique, to develop a vehicle that could submerse, called a bathyscaphe. Even though he started
Sylvia Earle is an American explorer, author, lecturer and marine biologist and the first woman to become chief scientist at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – a true, living legend and a scientist with merits so great that Time Magazine called her the first Hero for the Planet. Sylvia Earle has conducted more
Robert Pierre André Sténuit is a writer, journalist and deep-sea archeologist, but the public knows him for being the first and perhaps the most famous aquanaut of the world. In 1962, he climbed into a special, submersible vehicle called the “Link Cylinder” and dived in it to spend 24 hours on the bottom of the
Oceanography, as we know it today, is a science that comprises multiple disciplines, ranging from biological oceanography and the study of plate tectonics to the chemical study of the water in the oceans, with pioneers such as the British George Bass paving the way for this multi-faceted discipline. His explorations of the Australian Continent and
Famous naturalist and geologist Charles Darwin is perhaps best known as the author of the 1859 study On the Origin of Species, which helped revolutionize biology and the study of evolution. What many don’t know is that he has also contributed to the field of oceanography. Charles Darwin was born on 12th February 1809, in
Aiptasia are certainly the most rapid producing nuisance anemones in our captive systems. Left unchecked they can take control of an aquarium in a short time. Their powerful stinging can irritate corals and clams to the point of death. These unwanted anemones usually come as hitchhikers on live rock. Mostly spreading of this species is
Bristleworms are numerous in size shape and color, some so beautiful it’s ashamed they can be dangerous to our reef tanks. Most of the time these worms are inadvertently added to via live rock, or coral colonies themselves. Because there are prone to nocturnal predication we often don’t notice them unless they have created some
A typical reef aquarium consists of a collection of species that have made traveled from all around the globe. When we introduce coral specimens into our reef they have to deal with a foreign environment; predators, corals toxins, fish. Perhaps a new strain of nudibranch that comes from Australia now occupying the same space with
Molokini Crater snorkeling draws many tourists every year. The crater encompasses more than 20 acres, so while thousands of snorkelers may visit the crater daily during the summer it rarely feels crowded. Molokini Crater snorkeling is just 2 ½ miles from Maui, which is a 30 minute boat ride. Located in the Alalakeiki Channel, the
The Molokini Crater is a short boat ride from Mauai. It’s only 2 ½ miles away and located within the Alalakeiki Channel. A volcanic cinder cone caused the Molokini Crater and the part of the crater above water boasts a crescent moon shape. The crater is 23 acres and has a diameter of .4 miles.
Most Molokini snorkel trips sell out in advance, which means tourists should make their reservations three to five days in advance. Almost all Molokini snorkel trips are early in the morning around 7 am, before the trade winds pick up too much force. There are some afternoon trips, but they are few and far between.
Many native fish species are found in and around the Molokini Crater. In total, there are close to 250 fish species you may encounter when you take a Molokini snorkel cruise. The summit of the Molokini Crater is only 160 feet above the water and the rest of the crater is below the water’s surface.
There is high demand for Molokini snorkeling, which is why it is so important to schedule your tour well in advance. When Molokini snorkeling the water clarity is outstanding at up to 150 feet in the crater’s center, so take an underwater camera. Hidden coves, lava arches and sea caves are an everlasting reminder of
When you dive Molokini the expectations you should have is for the water to be cool and clear. Expect that the center of the crater will always be calm and protected, but beware of the currents on the outer edge of the crater as they can become dangerous. Morning hours are best suited for snorkeling
Xenia coral is well known for its relaxing effect on anyone who watches it. They are considered a soft coral, with sturdy stalks up to 3″ long, which are tan in color. As the water drifts past them, the polyps on the end of the stalks open and close in a pulsating or pumping motion.
The yellow leather coral is a soft coral Sarcophyton species that can be found in the shallow waters of reef tops, lagoons and reef slopes in the Indo-Pacific Ocean (specifically Tonga and Fiji) where they have easy access to constant and intense sunlight, in addition to rapidly moving currents. This location is crucial for the
The toadstool leather coral, a soft coral species in the Sarcophyton genus, is found on reef flats and lagoons in Indonesia and Tonga. Commonly referred to as Elegant Leather Coral, Gold Crowned Toadstool Coral, Green Crown Leather Coral, Green Toadstool, Leather Coral, Mushroom Coral, Sarcophyton Coral, Toadstool Mushroom, or Trough Coral, the colors of the
The mushroom leather coral is one of the Sarcophyton corals and referred to interchangeably as the toadstool leather coral, a soft coral that can be found in Indonesia and Tongas shallow waters among reef flats and lagoons in the Indo-Pacific. Common names for this coral are the Green Toadstool Coral, Umbrella Coral, Elephant Ear Leather
Leather coral, one of over 36 species belonging to the genus Sacrophyton, can be found in the warmer regions of the Pacific Ocean and Red Sea. The leather coral exists in colonies, with each individual colony extending up to 3 feet in length, but appearing much larger due to the colonies close proximity to one
Many first timers to the aquarium hobby will find the leather coral to be an excellent choice due to its attractive appearance and relatively low maintenance requirements. Reef tanks will need to have moderate to strong water movement so that the water can help the leather coral to shed its outer layer of waxy buildup
Green leather coral, one of the soft coral Sarcophyton species, is populated in the Indo-Pacific. Also known as the Fiji Green Finger Leather Coral, Green Crown Leather Coral, Green Toadstool Leather Coral, Rasta Leather Coral, Sinularia Coral, and Spaghetti Leather Coral, this coral has a green and brown color as its name implies. The green
Finger leather coral is a soft coral member of the Alcyoniidae family, and one of over 100 species in the genus Lobophytum. Originating in the Tropical Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean in Indonesia, these leather corals are thick, encrusting species and that has an upward, finger-like outgrowth (i.e. branching and lobed leather corals.) Commonly
When setting up your reef tank, you will first need to attain equipment and other components to get started. First you will need to buy a tank, stand, lighting, heater, salt mix, the livestock (fish, coral, rocks, sand), a filtration system (if the tank doesn’t come with one) test kits and hydrometer. Next, you will