Mating pharaoh cuttlefish

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Mating pharaoh cuttlefish

Pharaoh cuttlefish (Sepia pharaonis) mating. The male at centre is protecting the egg-laying female (below) from a rival male (above). The dark stripes and raised arms are threat displays. Like all cuttlefish, it can rapidly change the colour and texture of its skin. It uses this for camouflage and communication. During mating, the male places a spermatophore, a sac containing sperm, in a pouch by the females mouth. The spermatophore then bursts, releasing sperm into the females mantle cavity, where it fertilises the eggs. The eggs are then laid individually, being fixed to hard surfaces. Photographed in the Andaman Sea, Thailand

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6467363

© GEORGETTE DOUWMA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Aggression Aggressive Breeding Couple Cuttle Fish Displaying Eggs Guarding Laying Males Mating Mollusca Pharaoh Protecting Re Production Rival Sepia Pharaonis Threat Display

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a mesmerizing moment in the underwater world. In the midst of the Andaman Sea, Thailand, two pharaoh cuttlefish engage in an intricate mating ritual. The male stands at the center, his dark stripes and raised arms serving as threat displays to ward off a rival male lurking above. His sole focus is protecting the female below him as she lays her precious eggs. Pharaoh cuttlefish are known for their remarkable ability to rapidly change the color and texture of their skin, which they employ both for camouflage and communication. However, during this intimate act of reproduction, it takes on an entirely different purpose. The male carefully places a spermatophore containing sperm into a pouch near the female's mouth. With explosive force, it bursts open inside her mantle cavity, fertilizing her eggs. Each egg is then individually laid and securely affixed to hard surfaces within their watery domain. This extraordinary display of nature's ingenuity showcases not only the delicate balance between aggression and protection but also highlights how these incredible creatures ensure their survival through procreation. As we gaze upon this image captured by Science Photo Library with awe-inspiring clarity, we are reminded once again of nature's wonders that unfold beneath our seas - where life intertwines in beautiful harmony amidst fierce competition and tender moments of connection.

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