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White Slipper Sponge, brown Sponge, and Orange Sea Whip. |
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| * This is an interesting
habitat. Found beneath a protected overhanging shelf on the
Great North Wall of Grand Cayman Island, it sports a variety of life.
In the forefront is our White Slipper Sponge, with an additional white
sponge in the background. Both are unidentified Demosponges.
In the background also is an unidentified Red Encrusting Sponge.
To the middle left is a brown sponge (Agelus sp.). The
orange wire-like organisms are probably Orange Sea Whips (Ellisella
barbadensis). Due to the protected and and delicate nature
of this fragile marine ecosystem, elaborate techniques in lighting,
breath emission, and buoyancy control were necessary to avoid damage.
North Wall, Grand Cayman Island - Depth 125 feet or 38 meters - Time 10:30 am |
