SCIENCE IN PICS: Whip Coral Shrimp Blends in Perfectly

Whip coral shrimp on a orange whip coral at Bunaken Marine Park in Manado, Sulawesi. (Matthew Oldfield)

The whip coral shrimp, Pontonides uncigar, is a species of cleaner shrimp, and is widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific ocean.

These small crustaceans feed on parasites, plankton, and algae. They grow to about 1.5 centimeters (0.6 inches) in length and live down to about 55 meters (60 yards).

Normally they have a transparent body and purple antennae, but can change their color to match that of the whip coral that they live on.

Bunaken Marine Park is a popular dive destination in Indonesia, that is well-known for its marine biodiversity and beautiful coral reefs.

Matthew Oldfield is a freelance photographer based in Bali, Indonesia, specializing in editorial and documentary images from both above and below the waves. He works primarily with charities, NGO’s, and other organizations working to conserve the environment, endangered species, and disappearing cultures.

Matthew is on Twitter @matthewophoto. More of his photos can be found at matthew-oldfield-photography.com

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