The Cuttlefish’s arms are a distinguishing feature of this family of cephalopods and play a crucial role in the cuttlefish’s survival and daily activities. Cuttlefish are carnivorous predators that feed on a variety of small marine animals, including fish and crustaceans. Their arms are equipped with specialised suckers lined with small, sharp teeth called “papillae.” These suckers help them grasp Read more
An ever growing species list of the cool critters that we see on muck dives means there’s always something new to learn and even something new to discover as well. Keeping current with changes in classification or new information is an ongoing effort and something we like to pass onto guests who come and dive with us. Whether it’s new Read more
The Blue-Ringed Octopus stands out from other octopus species primarily due to its highly venomous nature and distinctive warning coloration. As with many other species of octopus, they are one of the real highlights of diving in the Lembeh Strait. The Blue-Ringed Octopus possesses one of the most potent venoms in the animal kingdom. Its venom contains powerful neurotoxins that Read more
The Emperor Shrimp, is a fascinating and visually striking species of shrimp often found at many of the dive sites in Lembeh. It features an orange translucent body with intricate patterns and often displaying shades of purple, blue, and white. Its unique colouring allows it to blend in with a variety of hosts, particularly sea cucumbers, where it is frequently Read more
Understandably, the many varieties of fish species and other cool critters get all the limelight on Blackwater Dives…….but we mustn’t forget the Jellyfish also! Jellyfish play a crucial role on Blackwater Dives and if they are plentiful, the chances are the dive will be very good.Many different creatures either feed on, hide inside, or use Jellyfish as transport during these Read more
The “Reeftop Pipefish” or “Messmate Pipefish” is a species of pipefish that is commonly found in shallow tropical and subtropical waters, particularly around coral reefs, seagrass beds, and rocky areas. This Pipefish has a slender and elongated body with a tubular snout, typical of pipefish. It exhibits intricate patterns and colours, including alternating bands of yellow and brown, which provide Read more
Flying gurnards are one of the most unique looking critters. They can be recognised by their stunning and distinctive pectoral fins, which resemble wings and give them their name “flying” gurnards. They have elongated bodies with large, fan-like pectoral fins that extend outwards like wings. As adults, these fins are often brightly coloured and adorned with intricate patterns….as juveniles the Read more
Juvenile Batfish are an intriguing subject to watch on muck dives as their appearance is immensely different to their mature stage, all for a very good reason. Adult Batfish all have very similar anatomy and colouration. A fairly large flat silver body, usually with black stripes and some yellow highlights on their body or fins. As juveniles, the different species Read more
Usually when it comes to underwater macro photography, we like to focus on our subjects first before considering anything else. One other technique that can be used to add another dimension to diving with a camera, is searching for backgrounds and photogenic environments instead. In terms of “muck” diving, most would assume that it would be hard to come across Read more
In the Lembeh Strait, we come across many different species and varieties of Goby…..all of which are no strangers to interactions with various parasites. Gobies, known for their shy nature and vivid colours, often become hosts to a diverse array of parasites. These parasites can range from external organisms that attach themselves to the fish’s body, to internal creatures that Read more
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