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Crown Jellyfish
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Code: rs00659
Price:
$18.00
Shipping Weight: 0.00 pounds
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While diving at dusk on the north side of Big Brothers Island in the Red Sea, I encountered a strong current sweeping this Crown Jellyfish (Netrostoma setouchianum), up from the abyss below. Much to my chagrin, I discovered I had only 3 frames left on the roll and only moments of air before I had to return to the surface. I quickly shot the last 3 frames and hoped the exposure and composition would accurately capture the wonderful scene in front of me.
This photograph is my favorite image. The eyespots can be seen around the cap of the jellyfish while the whitish "dots" around the base are actually tentacles that are withdrawn. Jellyfish have a very advanced water vascular system that allows them to pump water in and out of their bodies thus pushing out or pulling in their tentacles.
The stinging cells or nematocysts are microscopic spring loaded darts found on the tentacles and are extremely sensitive to pressure. When touched, thousands can be discharged. This is the mechanism that normally allows them to capture their prey, ranging in size from microscopic plankton to small fish. Numerous mouths are found underneath the central frill of the jellyfish.
This photo has been published on the cover of Sierra Clubs Oceans Calendar, and in numerous other books and publications such as "Natures Best" magazine and in "Celebration of the Seas, Heritage for the Future" a table top compilation of some of the finest underwater and nature photographs ever taken.
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