Porcelain crab

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Porcelain crab

Porcelain crab (Porcellanella triloba) on a sea pen (Virgularia sp.). The porcelain crab is feeding, using the large feathery appendage (maxilipeds) around its head and claws to capture zooplankton and direct them to its mouth. The sea pen is a colonial organism related to sea feathers. Photographed in Tulamben, Bali, Indonesia

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

Media ID 6470133

© MATTHEW OLDFIELD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Anthozoan Bali Colonial Colony Crab Crustacean Feeding Indonesia Pennatulacea Polyp Polyps Porcelain Crab Sea Pen Tulamben

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate relationship between a Porcelain crab and a sea pen in the vibrant waters of Tulamben, Bali. The Porcelain crab, scientifically known as Porcellanella triloba, is captured in action as it feeds on zooplankton using its remarkable appendages called maxilipeds. These large feathery structures around its head and claws enable the crab to capture and direct tiny organisms towards its mouth with precision. The sea pen, belonging to the colonial organism family related to sea feathers, serves as both a habitat and a partner for this delicate crustacean. In this snapshot of marine life's harmony, we witness how these two species coexist symbiotically underwater. The sea pen provides shelter for the porcelain crab while benefiting from potential food particles stirred up by its feeding activities. Located in Indonesia's tropical waters, this photograph not only highlights the beauty of Asian aquatic fauna but also offers insights into marine biology and zoology. It unveils nature's wonders beneath the surface through an enchanting display of biological interactions within colonies and polyps. Thanks to Science Photo Library for capturing this extraordinary moment that exemplifies the diversity and complexity found within our oceans' ecosystems. This image invites us to appreciate the fascinating world of invertebrates like porcelain crabs and their essential role in maintaining ecological balance underwater.

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