Sea fan and seahorses, X-ray

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Sea fan and seahorses, X-ray

Sea fan coral. Coloured composite X-ray of two seahorses above a sea fan, or gorgonian. Sea fans are coral-like organisms that live in a large colony. Each organism, or polyp, secretes a hard mineral around itself for protection and support. These secretions form the rocky skeleton seen here. Sea fan polyps feed by sifting minute plankton particles from the water. Sea fans are flat, and are orientated to present the maximum surface area to the prevailing current. Seahorses are fish that inhabit reefs and reeds throughout the worlds temperate and tropical seas. They grasp onto structures such as coral with their prehensile tails

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

Media ID 6469705

© D. ROBERTS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Cnidarian Coelenterate Colonial Colony Coral Couple Gorgonian Life Organism Radiography Sea Horse Sea Horses

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of marine life beneath the surface. The X-ray image reveals a mesmerizing composition of a sea fan coral and two seahorses, creating an enchanting scene that highlights the wonders of nature. Sea fans, resembling coral-like organisms, thrive in large colonies where each polyp secretes a protective mineral layer around itself. This composite X-ray displays their rocky skeleton, formed by these secretions. Positioned flatly to maximize exposure to prevailing currents, sea fans efficiently sift minute plankton particles from the surrounding water for sustenance. Accompanying this vibrant colony are two seahorses gracefully clinging onto the structure with their prehensile tails. These unique fish can be found inhabiting reefs and reeds across temperate and tropical seas worldwide. Their presence adds an element of charm to this already awe-inspiring snapshot. The fusion of colors within this image brings forth a sense of vitality and diversity found in our oceans' depths. It serves as a reminder of how interconnected marine ecosystems are, showcasing both stationary organisms like sea fans alongside mobile creatures such as seahorses. Through this remarkable photograph captured by Science Photo Library, we gain insight into the delicate balance between different species that coexist harmoniously underwater while celebrating the magnificence inherent in every corner of our natural world.

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