Discover the Ophiomorus raithmai, or Raith's Brittle Star, a remarkable marine scavenger that thrives in temperate coastal waters, featuring a distinctive central disc with five flexible arms and the ability to regenerate lost limbs. This species plays a vital role in nutrient recycling within its ecosystem, contributing to the health of benthic communities.
Tag: marine food web
Ophiomorus punctatissimus
Discover the intriguing Ophiomorus punctatissimus, commonly known as the spotted brittle star, which thrives in warm marine habitats of the Indo-Pacific region, featuring a distinctive dappled appearance and flexible arms that can reach up to 25 cm in diameter. This omnivorous species plays a vital role in nutrient cycling and coral reef health while exhibiting fascinating nocturnal behavior and unique regenerative abilities.
Ophiomorus maranjabensis
Ophiomorus maranjabensis is a marine brittle star found in the Persian Gulf, distinguished by its elongated arms and ability to regenerate lost limbs. This detritivore plays a vital role in nutrient cycling and thrives in sandy substrates while exhibiting unique behaviors such as nocturnal foraging and aggregate feeding.
Laticauda laticaudata
The <b>Laticauda laticaudata</b>, or wide-bodied sea snake, thrives in warm tropical and subtropical waters, primarily found in coral reefs and coastal areas. Measuring between 1.2 to 2 meters, this diurnal carnivore captures fish and crustaceans using its potent yet mild venom, playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance in marine ecosystems.
Laticauda crockeri
<p>The <b>Laticauda crockeri</b>, or Crocker's sea krait, is a strikingly patterned sea snake found in tropical western Pacific coastal waters, featuring distinct black and white bands. This ovoviviparous predator primarily feeds on fish and eels, playing a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of its coral reef ecosystem.</p>
Hydrophis stokesii
<p><b>Hydrophis stokesii</b>, commonly known as Stokes' sea snake, is a slender, venomous marine reptile found in the warm coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region, known for its striking olive or bluish-green coloration and ability to thrive in diverse marine habitats. This ovoviviparous species plays a crucial role in the ecosystem as both predator and prey, primarily feeding on small fish and eels while exhibiting unique hunting behaviors.</p>
Hydrophis obscurus
<p>The <b>Hydrophis obscurus</b>, or obscure sea snake, is a slender, agile marine reptile native to tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, characterized by its greenish-yellow to brownish coloration and paddle-like tail. It primarily feeds on fish, exhibits diurnal hunting behavior, and plays a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance within coral reefs and coastal habitats.</p>
Hydrophis anomalus
Hydrophis anomalus, commonly known as the anomalous sea snake, is a slender, blue-gray snake with distinctive yellow or cream bands, found in the warm, shallow waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This carnivorous species primarily preys on small fish and eels, plays a critical role in marine ecosystems, and is adapted for life underwater with specialized lungs allowing it to dive to depths of up to 200 meters.
Capitellum parvicruzae
Discover the Capitellum parvicruzae, a vital marine species found in shallow coastal regions of the western Atlantic, known for its segmented bodies measuring 5 to 10 cm and its role as a detritivorous organism that aids in nutrient recycling within the ecosystem. With its unique burrowing behavior and nocturnal feeding patterns, this resilient species contributes to the health and stability of marine environments.
Stejneger’s Beaked Whale
Explore the mysterious world of Perrin's Beaked Whale (<i>Mesoplodon perrini</i>), a lesser-known cetacean that thrives in the deep waters of the North Pacific Ocean. With unique physical characteristics and remarkable deep-diving abilities, these elusive whales play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem. Learn about their habitat, diet, behavior, and the conservation challenges they face in this insightful species description.