tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80885672186840835812024-02-08T12:01:40.928+08:00Singapore Celebrates IYOR 2008initiatives to act for our reefs in 2008 and beyondRia Tanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09770926654830427210noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-91352408289581834252009-01-06T10:21:00.001+08:002009-01-06T14:29:18.338+08:00Last lows of 2008<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYype9hHV3mb9RPojk5sNbmuW6yvatV1b8F9wRrwtWT5qzgQrBsivneJlH1moPpC_KxoUtOuGDgI96Hd0m_JuyEsHqez_2YTpIZzXzEVQORh2RUzKrYdDPjEoH0dw8V-cgY5yPfQSURCf/s1600-h/_DSC4515m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; float: right; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 211px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIYype9hHV3mb9RPojk5sNbmuW6yvatV1b8F9wRrwtWT5qzgQrBsivneJlH1moPpC_KxoUtOuGDgI96Hd0m_JuyEsHqez_2YTpIZzXzEVQORh2RUzKrYdDPjEoH0dw8V-cgY5yPfQSURCf/s400/_DSC4515m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286003028862629442" border="0" /></a>On the dark moonless nights of the last not so low tides of 2008, more shores were explored. The 'moon slug' was spotted again! As well as other surprises: marine and terrestrial on our islands.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The Hantu Bloggers had their last dive of the year at the fantastic reefs of Pulau Hantu. The intrepid Chay Hoon captured a whole host of the marvellous marine life there. Such as seahorses, icon sea stars, ovulid snails on sea fans and lots and lots of slugs. Including this <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/12/one-greedy-nudibranch.html">very greedy nudibranch</a>!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLVYC944K3XI-VVlaRiw3uet1Gxkro1DfdyH6n6uwQ6WWR45i4J_iIHpq9OkxNEIrSP5yZrN-hzgXzIEBdmvehnTnUal07mTA7RGYYNJ7crcOM64miCvTflWvhl0_v2po5IYYF8V7TSo/s1600-h/IMG_0920.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLVYC944K3XI-VVlaRiw3uet1Gxkro1DfdyH6n6uwQ6WWR45i4J_iIHpq9OkxNEIrSP5yZrN-hzgXzIEBdmvehnTnUal07mTA7RGYYNJ7crcOM64miCvTflWvhl0_v2po5IYYF8V7TSo/s400/IMG_0920.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288059933400946674" border="0" /></a>The Semakau Book Project brought many nature lovers to Pulau Semakau again. <a href="http://www.butterflycircle.com/">The Butterfly Circle</a> in just one quick visit came up with <a href="http://butterflycircle.blogspot.com/2009/01/pulau-semakau-butterfly-survey.html">18 species of butterflies</a>! John, an expert on bees and wasps also came along and share more about <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/490676735/butterflies-and-bees-of-pulau-semakau.html">this gianormous hornet's nest</a> on the island!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjAwZCKfBwCrMCaVz7FF-vlJG-mnop0StLsWwXWAm49m9xoY1OGj5zirOhbrvznlunCoAiXD0AWka3aTMJiGygfuc2EP8ygJplopxBPkqCuQKG4i1iYKy_8uhvWH2k-8vdmSeZjytwlMwW/s1600-h/_DSC3802m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjAwZCKfBwCrMCaVz7FF-vlJG-mnop0StLsWwXWAm49m9xoY1OGj5zirOhbrvznlunCoAiXD0AWka3aTMJiGygfuc2EP8ygJplopxBPkqCuQKG4i1iYKy_8uhvWH2k-8vdmSeZjytwlMwW/s400/_DSC3802m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281890796647318098" border="0" /></a>While <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/old-groves.html">more mangroves were explored</a> with an <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/490676734/more-mangroves-of-pulau-semakau.html">encounter with <span style="font-style: italic;">Avicennia marina</span></a> just off the seawall.<br /><br />The Vertebrate Group (aka the Verters) also made an evening trip to check out the island. These experts helped those unfamiliar with life above the high water mark, to find the vertebrates on Pulau Semakau. There were <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/496804835/vertebrates-of-pulau-semakau.html">frogs and toads and geckoes</a>, even right on the tarmac!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpje8AOXY9pAIKJ3TEO2Yu_jHfKD5-u0Uq3et6PZ9S0yBR631zgAb-6dhJTfdClwA-9TkpVIDigYePmcM3ruj5OCIWQ-AIGZ7UK6nG94uryt1mXNLqLHLNHWnR73qKd9UCiajAlS_p4mJ/s1600-h/_DSC4073m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHpje8AOXY9pAIKJ3TEO2Yu_jHfKD5-u0Uq3et6PZ9S0yBR631zgAb-6dhJTfdClwA-9TkpVIDigYePmcM3ruj5OCIWQ-AIGZ7UK6nG94uryt1mXNLqLHLNHWnR73qKd9UCiajAlS_p4mJ/s400/_DSC4073m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284693971810815714" border="0" /></a>In the dark, the experts detected signs of <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/croak-on-a-rock.html">bats and night birds</a>. While other <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/hunter-in-the-dark.html">large marine life</a> in the mangroves were seen, including a <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2009/01/crabby-new-year.html">humungous Mud crab</a>!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpK_aY26ZZmP-msV5kAhW60Qq4HZ-nm17RoGga3ycsHPoCDPiFzUnxTCCkkkt53-QjTpXzeksQHZGPPFNpKOD_N_4WV0dicGyPxIjmkSuVZBa6uuW3S7pYwxpeNYA5HYvf6IThX8hQzppz/s1600-h/_DSC3886m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpK_aY26ZZmP-msV5kAhW60Qq4HZ-nm17RoGga3ycsHPoCDPiFzUnxTCCkkkt53-QjTpXzeksQHZGPPFNpKOD_N_4WV0dicGyPxIjmkSuVZBa6uuW3S7pYwxpeNYA5HYvf6IThX8hQzppz/s400/_DSC3886m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284690970356824962" border="0" /></a>The blue skies made even <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/490615109/sunny-day-in-south.html">sad situations</a> look nice, and the weather was glorious for <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/496809541/scenic-semakau.html">landscape shots</a>, although the mozzies <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/it-hurts.html">made things challeging</a>.<br /><br />Meanwhile <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/first-time-at-sultan-shoal.html">a visit to Sultan Shoal</a> by other shore explorers revealed some <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/12/purple-fiddler-crab-other-rare.html">interesting fiddler crabs</a> and <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/12/discovery-sultan-shoal-on-27-dec-2008.html">other sightings</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdqOOkTp1YIIne1BKCvVEbHN_f82M7q5WDhyphenhyphenVUwKhJJAu3C2cKYcengv14nB0uReAF0OXvcgi8bJ71Pid1myqv33uZOy2t5XndwmdLVrrkcHeqEZGuAA5J0vO6eDofzvSnjfmfVgkeBY/s1600-h/sultanshoalp21.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 289px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdqOOkTp1YIIne1BKCvVEbHN_f82M7q5WDhyphenhyphenVUwKhJJAu3C2cKYcengv14nB0uReAF0OXvcgi8bJ71Pid1myqv33uZOy2t5XndwmdLVrrkcHeqEZGuAA5J0vO6eDofzvSnjfmfVgkeBY/s400/sultanshoalp21.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288056374733896338" border="0" /></a>Diehard shore explorers spent the absolute last low tide of 2008 at the Sisters Island. Where marvellous <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2009/01/nemo-dat-duo-habit-big-sisters.html">video clips of 'Nemos'</a> were shot, and the spotted <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/499603193/happy-new-year-from-sisters-island.html">Moon-headed side-gill slug</a> made an appearance, while <a href="http://leafmonkey.blogspot.com/2009/01/welcoming-2009-at-sisters-island.html">two sea snakes</a> said hello.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nNRN-lN1E3Hi9cVYzKCDeqYO_f0XSCYUO6_762ByDts9WbiZbOIGID8UyROHcneCcNQEerdQMraGRS8OsFkrmC1xtzm8jB8NX3U3sdLpkDhQBnTaiSZolVf0imvdM4OAKzIdQhGEeIQ/s1600-h/3158043519_6d00db12a7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3nNRN-lN1E3Hi9cVYzKCDeqYO_f0XSCYUO6_762ByDts9WbiZbOIGID8UyROHcneCcNQEerdQMraGRS8OsFkrmC1xtzm8jB8NX3U3sdLpkDhQBnTaiSZolVf0imvdM4OAKzIdQhGEeIQ/s400/3158043519_6d00db12a7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288056370989494418" border="0" /></a>As the tides were not very low during this period, other less glamorous shores were also examined with some surprises! There were <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/496998306/stars-on-sembawang-beach.html">stars on Sembawang shores</a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVTbVa8prouPBP5BP6TFZi5kJYiG3SKSJ5e_8v0ft2xZYZML4OaT380cfwn8n2Y_iKE9I_5uxmBMnwy9MmBl_Vl7waHXrNkCbuqbWh3L-gBbXcaOrvPXLnbKWOnaHaP-fopy7CnnSM90w/s1600-h/_DSC4157m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqVTbVa8prouPBP5BP6TFZi5kJYiG3SKSJ5e_8v0ft2xZYZML4OaT380cfwn8n2Y_iKE9I_5uxmBMnwy9MmBl_Vl7waHXrNkCbuqbWh3L-gBbXcaOrvPXLnbKWOnaHaP-fopy7CnnSM90w/s400/_DSC4157m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5284817483433445266" border="0" /></a>And stars too at <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/pasir-ris-quickly.html">Pasir Ris</a> and on the <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/stars-at-lazarus-reclaimed-beach.html">reclaimed shores of Lazarus</a>. <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/497770352/kranji-quickly.html">Kranji</a> was a little disappointing and <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/498550555/seletar-shore-from-afar.html">Seletar</a> was viewed only from afar.<br /><br />There were also belated updates about <a href="http://lazy-lizard-tales.blogspot.com/2008/10/siloso-suntan_17.html">amazing marine life on Siloso Beach Sentosa</a> on the aptly named Lazy Lizard's Tales blog.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyrV2Mx5H3Ax4wpgVSfFwP_NtmLOLhYNlVLbxOjGuc6eXkP69qEQeB84pP57Vmv1Ztw7NYJgMn1lzkO_6hMjZbY2bE1JB99JIEZxXZEjq36koJp1SNqEY_3DvFYHrDFbFvsYgPwyyc8Y/s1600-h/PC280109.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyrV2Mx5H3Ax4wpgVSfFwP_NtmLOLhYNlVLbxOjGuc6eXkP69qEQeB84pP57Vmv1Ztw7NYJgMn1lzkO_6hMjZbY2bE1JB99JIEZxXZEjq36koJp1SNqEY_3DvFYHrDFbFvsYgPwyyc8Y/s400/PC280109.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288062874749415554" border="0" /></a>The <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/12/last-public-walk-for-2008.html">Naked Hermit Crabs</a> also had a great time at the last guided Chek Jawa Boardwalk tour for the year.<br /><br />The first super low tides of 2009 are fast approaching in a few days' time. No doubt more shore discoveries will be made!<br /><br />Happy 2009 Everyone!</span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-32420407034199988462008-12-18T15:04:00.000+08:002008-12-18T15:49:39.306+08:00Full moon madness: last low spring tide of 2008<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2_jWkBnFDQhI5wE1pE7bcMi60AAAVZ0irgPWSlVygjvA62wtOrVi6gp4Bz6jBblkdJYlh5InG4D54rQKlNiTVsWH46USUiHHETecMJF1rqZRudZwxQM8d8o9An0KW-0OEoekewqrizk/s1600-h/cyr121208p02.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 235px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2_jWkBnFDQhI5wE1pE7bcMi60AAAVZ0irgPWSlVygjvA62wtOrVi6gp4Bz6jBblkdJYlh5InG4D54rQKlNiTVsWH46USUiHHETecMJF1rqZRudZwxQM8d8o9An0KW-0OEoekewqrizk/s400/cyr121208p02.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281029780497674754" border="0" /></a>The moon was full (<a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20onblur=%22try%20%7Bparent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully%28%29;%7D%20catch%28e%29%20%7B%7D%22%20href=%22https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNbw7NdVR6KI1Tr0D4orRpm37MLgt0TnPjumj0SRjgsSS_9GCpX_V3flPlE81g1glqBBARac02q1XKoc8lKTqnV4agI0M6C9RC22_bVPTpFNYd_-48esZxM5Us4YswlK_m0qCikH63ZOu/s1600-h/DSC_2488m6.jpg%22%3E%3Cimg%20style=%22margin:%200px%20auto%2010px;%20display:%20block;%20text-align:%20center;%20cursor:%20pointer;%20width:%20400px;%20height:%20294px;%22%20src=%22https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNbw7NdVR6KI1Tr0D4orRpm37MLgt0TnPjumj0SRjgsSS_9GCpX_V3flPlE81g1glqBBARac02q1XKoc8lKTqnV4agI0M6C9RC22_bVPTpFNYd_-48esZxM5Us4YswlK_m0qCikH63ZOu/s400/DSC_2488m6.jpg%22%20alt=%22%22%20id=%22BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276854680268915954%22%20border=%220%22%3E%3C/a%3E">the biggest in 15 years</a>, scientists tell us) and thus the calendars of shore explorers were also full. A flurry of shores were visited, guided walks conducted and monitoring done. And our first wedding couple on Cyrene Reef too! Here's all the wacky encounters during this last super low tide of the year.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Way before the full moon madness, the Hantu Bloggers had a fantastic <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/blog-log-30-nov-2008/">dive at the reefs of Pulau Hantu</a>. With sightings of feather stars and lots and lots of nudibranchs! Such as this large and beautiful <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/12/good-dive-pulau-hantu.html">Snakey Bornella nudibranch</a> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Bornella anguilla</span>) munching on a mouthful of hydroids!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLEAvHmdF4cNGs_CN7L0wsBMT0QxhFUrsTxnLYjtn1J0RU1kysj2HlKrfgW4bJK1Fw79PMq3TVeGfiOmGOEpEcib7CbfgkszLdo6fF7jqVdh2hyphenhyphenPwSv-vHdHPkaUeZUAK1Hb4Cvd6VOA/s1600-h/IMG_0868.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 232px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLEAvHmdF4cNGs_CN7L0wsBMT0QxhFUrsTxnLYjtn1J0RU1kysj2HlKrfgW4bJK1Fw79PMq3TVeGfiOmGOEpEcib7CbfgkszLdo6fF7jqVdh2hyphenhyphenPwSv-vHdHPkaUeZUAK1Hb4Cvd6VOA/s400/IMG_0868.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281003524963721490" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Semakau overdose</span><br /><br />The Semakau Book Project team made a flurry of trips and dives to Pulau Semakau in preparation for this coffee-table book about the biodiversity of this special island. The Book is be published in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Semakau Landfill.<br /><br />While half the team went diving in Semakau's waters, another group <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/477185939/semakau-at-high-tide.html">explored the coastline at not-low-tide</a> taking a closer look at the life on the high water mark and checking up on the very rare <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/477179701/some-plants-of-semakau.html">Seashore Bat Lily</a> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Tacca leontopetaloides</span>).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNbw7NdVR6KI1Tr0D4orRpm37MLgt0TnPjumj0SRjgsSS_9GCpX_V3flPlE81g1glqBBARac02q1XKoc8lKTqnV4agI0M6C9RC22_bVPTpFNYd_-48esZxM5Us4YswlK_m0qCikH63ZOu/s1600-h/DSC_2488m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigNbw7NdVR6KI1Tr0D4orRpm37MLgt0TnPjumj0SRjgsSS_9GCpX_V3flPlE81g1glqBBARac02q1XKoc8lKTqnV4agI0M6C9RC22_bVPTpFNYd_-48esZxM5Us4YswlK_m0qCikH63ZOu/s400/DSC_2488m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5276854680268915954" border="0" /></a>This plant was first discovered by Joseph Lai during the Semakau mangrove survey conducted by Zeehan Jaafar and Loh Tse Lynn in 2005. This plant is listed as Critically Endangered in the 2008 Red List of threatened plants of Singapore. It is restricted to a few populations in Pulau Semakau and Pulau Pawai (just opposite Pulau Semakau).<br /><br />Alas, <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/477179702/how-is-semakau-doing-and-what-you-can.html">some areas were badly affected by marine litter</a> that drift in all our waters and end up on all our shores, and <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/12/we-saw-this-at-semakau.html">signs of an ill mangrove tree</a> were seen.<br /><br />The team returned a few days later to explore the southern mangroves of Pulau Semakau and <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/semakau-stormwatch.html">despite the rain</a> saw lots of other <a href="http://psychedelic-nature.blogspot.com/2008/12/walk-to-remember-semakau.html">interesting marine life</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBbi-CSTGBr16iuCmBpKbkv176FHHzWQ7N0TJbpaAqNtlZRJQKhtv45oREgu-J0C1es8z5r73ekRYwO1_dZ6fl0rIfhodbLb3eUy4u94SlkEmMv2KIbeg6VBXCJifdU2327tQANlHQjM0/s1600-h/sm111208p07.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 289px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBbi-CSTGBr16iuCmBpKbkv176FHHzWQ7N0TJbpaAqNtlZRJQKhtv45oREgu-J0C1es8z5r73ekRYwO1_dZ6fl0rIfhodbLb3eUy4u94SlkEmMv2KIbeg6VBXCJifdU2327tQANlHQjM0/s400/sm111208p07.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281027324662065858" border="0" /></a>Including <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/exploring-southern-semakau.html">this rare Cyptic sea star </a>(<span style="font-style: italic;">Cryptasterina </span>sp.) which has so far been seen only on Pulau Semakau. And special mangrove trees such as <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/482303100/semakau-in-rain.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Ceriops tagal</span></a>.<br /><br />The Book team also joined <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/12/pulau-semakau-13-dec-08.html">TeamSeagrass for monitoring at Pulau Semakau</a>. As usual, after the monitoring session, a <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/last-2008-seagrass-monitoring-at.html">quick walk around</a> resulted in stunning sightings include sea stars, huge sea cucumbers, a very <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/how-i-like-my-tomatoes.html">pretty Tomato anemone fish</a> and <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/484150025/return-to-pulau-semakau-and-big-moon.html">other marine life</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4a3mcqFUVXb3sWUmBUo9yrEEkvWzIW0iQ-MrWgv1YfD0UVRUAbH6cFnOoimUhP5QK7u132mYINFnHzPaYQ2ruDl8HjYFFEqkBLdxvl1mvmhx45LbklyEdkNbTrQMJjl7_ZhlYFHxm4cM/s1600-h/sk131208p14.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 289px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4a3mcqFUVXb3sWUmBUo9yrEEkvWzIW0iQ-MrWgv1YfD0UVRUAbH6cFnOoimUhP5QK7u132mYINFnHzPaYQ2ruDl8HjYFFEqkBLdxvl1mvmhx45LbklyEdkNbTrQMJjl7_ZhlYFHxm4cM/s400/sk131208p14.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281032424108180882" border="0" /></a>This is <a href="http://www.talfryn.net/2008/12/14/semakau/">not something people usually expect</a> at a landfill.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Cyrene wedding!</span><br /><br />The newly-weds were the highlight of a <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/12/cyrene-reef-12-dec-08.html">TeamSeagrass monitoring session</a> at Cyrene Reef. The first among Team members and the first on Cyrene Reef. And the <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/483251913/sex-in-seagrasses-on-cyrene.html">seagrasses on Cyrene were in full bloom</a> as if to celebrate the occasion.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygND3TU-KViwS-6-est4pG48rATSCZP-eTS8r8lGu363xPnDcrL7YAu-FAKMvzkiKAz3YFVe4ZeLGSSFlVxjhC0kVGnfy_WBT109STM7_yHQo3FP_picTkKfiLGoTva98blLrL1dwf5Bv/s1600-h/_DSC0041m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygND3TU-KViwS-6-est4pG48rATSCZP-eTS8r8lGu363xPnDcrL7YAu-FAKMvzkiKAz3YFVe4ZeLGSSFlVxjhC0kVGnfy_WBT109STM7_yHQo3FP_picTkKfiLGoTva98blLrL1dwf5Bv/s400/_DSC0041m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279082832855895858" border="0" /></a>Highlights of the trip included tiny bright orange brittle stars on a purple soft coral and <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/starry-honeymoon-at-cyrene.html">some special sea stars</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgnXUlBkUeZXVafT-RniFHdfdywlbcxnyGeRzk6ZYoXoMi9p-ukxRCLOwfo9XJcbw_vgsU3k-2xDnfd4-pepvxrXXUmKSe89hUc9p8Xz-57Y9EkP9cm2W2b1kjvBJkaz7bBtYHTtVvic/s1600-h/cyr121208p20.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgnXUlBkUeZXVafT-RniFHdfdywlbcxnyGeRzk6ZYoXoMi9p-ukxRCLOwfo9XJcbw_vgsU3k-2xDnfd4-pepvxrXXUmKSe89hUc9p8Xz-57Y9EkP9cm2W2b1kjvBJkaz7bBtYHTtVvic/s400/cyr121208p20.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281033338669824994" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.talfryn.net/2008/12/13/cyrene/">First-timers enjoyed</a> the trip too!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Soft and special</span><br /><br />Another shore that <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/wow-shore-exploration.html">makes you go "WOW!"</a> was visited. Because it's very soft and you easily end up literally in deep trouble. But also because of the <a href="http://psychedelic-nature.blogspot.com/2008/12/garden-of-everything.html">amazing unexpected encounters</a> there.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQ-17TWWe-S3deMSYCLAPoTr1Y3SOuhXc7K2HwsyAWMqZvTcuXaBpdXdlTatcvfsIhVDbm4StDDWgGz9HMyTlSB1NhBgu43QIOg_SzjhSD51A1SYsbox4C071jYbonmViv-XP83lLr9sf/s1600-h/_DSC3134m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQ-17TWWe-S3deMSYCLAPoTr1Y3SOuhXc7K2HwsyAWMqZvTcuXaBpdXdlTatcvfsIhVDbm4StDDWgGz9HMyTlSB1NhBgu43QIOg_SzjhSD51A1SYsbox4C071jYbonmViv-XP83lLr9sf/s400/_DSC3134m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279808011046639922" border="0" /></a>Such as <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/fascinating-eight-armed-sea-stars.html">gianormous sea stars</a>, as well as some <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/485078219/strange-snails-huge-stars-and-other.html">strange snails</a> that the exploring team have not seen before. There was also <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/11/intricate-and-fanciful-snails.html">earlier visit on 30 Nov</a> to this shore.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sentosa surprises</span><br /><br />Sentosa was much visited and discussed during this full moon. There were walks by the <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/12/first-sentosa-walk-of-december.html">Naked Hermit Crabs</a> for the annual family trip during the school holidays, as well as a <a href="http://ashira.blogspot.com/2008/12/sentosa-with-swa-folks.html">special walk with SWA</a> and <a href="http://lazy-lizard-tales.blogspot.com/2008/12/siloso-surprises.html">a closer look at the more man-made parts</a> of the Sentosa shores. Some thoughts were also shared about the possible <a href="http://lazy-lizard-tales.blogspot.com/2008/12/thoughts-on-zoukout-2008.html">impact of ZoukOut on the shores</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other shore trips</span><br /><br />A visit to <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/486145742/improved-beach-on-changi.html">a Changi shore impacted by 'beach improvement'</a> shows some life still struggling there. Elsewhere, <a href="http://psychedelic-nature.blogspot.com/2008/12/rock.html">a rocky shore</a> provides interesting encounters. The continuing low tides reveals <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/12/moments-of-tanah-merah.html">Tanah Merah</a> to be teeming with button snails, sand dollars and sand stars.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrtffxrR-i4LKoNsWFg_dp8xo51Tg_XKesjX3hGFHUqPFK-6awF5OIxAiBrL6cAFk3znVpAB2zSEg9zQuZXYlvnXpWF_mciS22q0z7Qks3CJe21ERmiq172kk-zh1W7yrURC5yda2DNpL/s1600-h/_DSC3583m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCrtffxrR-i4LKoNsWFg_dp8xo51Tg_XKesjX3hGFHUqPFK-6awF5OIxAiBrL6cAFk3znVpAB2zSEg9zQuZXYlvnXpWF_mciS22q0z7Qks3CJe21ERmiq172kk-zh1W7yrURC5yda2DNpL/s400/_DSC3583m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280411814802081218" border="0" /></a>While Pasir Ris has <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/487100945/pasir-ris-health-check.html">living seagrass meadows</a> and a <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/487100947/pool-of-suprises-at-pasir-ris.html">galaxy of tiny creatures</a> even in a shallow pool of weeds, such as the tiny Cerberilla nudibranch in the photo above. The Semakau guides also <a href="http://uforest.blogspot.com/2008/12/st-john-island-exploration.html">explored St. John's Island</a> which still has <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/12/discovery-st-john-island-on-13-dec-2008.html">rare mangroves</a> and other surprises.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Outreach and efforts for our reefs and shores<br /></span><span>Lots of work got done on the shores and in the classroom</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><ul><li><a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/reef-friends-survey-training-dec-08/">ReefFriends conducted a series of training sessions</a> in December for volunteer divers participating in the programme to monitor reefs.<br /></li><li><a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/hantu-blog-at-singapore-american-school/">The Hantu Bloggers gave a talk</a> about our reefs to the Singapore American School.</li><li><a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/11/november-rain.html">The Naked Hermit Crabs conducted an exciting free walk </a>on the Chek Jawa boardwalk for the public, held every last Sunday of the month. With <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/11/chek-jawa-wild-boars.html">sightings of wild boar</a>! As well as another walk for <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/12/iras-friends-visit-chek-jawa.html">a group from IRAS</a> with mudskippers and other sightings.</li><li>The Naked Hermit Crabs also conducted <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/12/first-sentosa-walk-of-december.html">a Sentosa walk for families</a> during the school holidays, with sightings of nudibranchs and other marine life.<br /></li><li>Another <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/477969044/crazy-cnidarians-more-fun-at-nature.html">Workshop for Nature Guides</a> was conducted by the Leafmonkey Workshop, this time on Cnidarians.<br /></li><li>A brand new <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/475267148/new-pulau-ubin-flickr-group-join-now.html">Pulau Ubin flickr group</a> was set up to showcase this special island which boasts many unspoilt natural treasures, not just Chek Jawa.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">In the news</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/477017531/bigger-wilder-sungei-buloh-wetland.html">A bigger, wilder Sungei Buloh</a> plans were announced during the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve anniversary celebrations.</li><li><a href="http://ashira.blogspot.com/2008/12/new-seahorse-id-book-available.html">New seahorse ID book</a> on the ashira blog.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other posts about our shores</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/nothing-to-do.html">Nothing to do</a> thoughts about visiting our own country, on the annotated budak blog.</li><li><a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/12/too-long.html">How long can it last?</a> some thoughts about our disappearing shores, on the annotated budak blog.<br /></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-15879526989012811892008-11-28T10:50:00.003+08:002008-11-28T13:50:25.079+08:00Pink mangroves? Killer giant clams? and other questions answered<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wildsingapore/3051627704/" title="Hermit crabs "Big shell exchange" by wildsingapore, on Flickr"><img style="width: 241px; height: 180px; float: right;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3160/3051627704_47f7890e3e.jpg" alt="Hermit crabs "Big shell exchange"" /></a>What happens when mangroves are exposed to pollution? How are hermit crabs with an empty shell like women at a shoe store? Do giant clams trap divers by clamping shut on them? And other intriguing questions about our reefs and shores were explored this past week!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What happens when mangroves are exposed to pollution?</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw69pYqKamT6xtdE12J-xpICFTTIQuosS0n5ej4ZDvmlPqMVaLLbi1eDGpSx-GHfIiajeVGDCdJkWccYa73pmDfr2qEZiwlPdsXjdneBrJTQfqHm7CrSrHnMbEqourn9cxgqdLEmf49GM/s1600-h/IMGP5399.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw69pYqKamT6xtdE12J-xpICFTTIQuosS0n5ej4ZDvmlPqMVaLLbi1eDGpSx-GHfIiajeVGDCdJkWccYa73pmDfr2qEZiwlPdsXjdneBrJTQfqHm7CrSrHnMbEqourn9cxgqdLEmf49GM/s400/IMGP5399.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273577302702322930" border="0" /></a>Chay Hoon blogs about <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/11/mangrove-as-bioindicator.html">Mangroves as bioindicators</a>. She attended a Mangrove workshop conducted by <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nsse.nie.edu.sg/faculty/whjyong.htm">Dr Jean Yong</a> at <a target="_blank" href="http://rmbr.nus.edu.sg/">RMBR</a>. He had gone to Lim Chu Kang to collect some Bakau Minyak (<span style="font-style: italic;">Rhizophora apiculata</span>) seedlings which had turned pink! The seedling is usually green, like the one on the left of the photo. Dr Yong said it's like a pregnant mother exposing to bad stuffs (eg radiation/second-hand smoking) and the baby gets affected.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How are hermit crabs and an empty shell like women at a shoe store?</span><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wildsingapore/3050790083/" title="Hermit crabs "Big shell exchange" by wildsingapore, on Flickr"><img style="width: 395px; height: 293px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3025/3050790083_3325474c9e.jpg" alt="Hermit crabs "Big shell exchange"" height="368" width="500" /></a><br />Ria blogs about <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/462376420/hermit-crabs-at-great-shell-exchange.html">hermit crabs at the Great Shell Exchange</a> sharing more on how hermit crabs can literally sniff out empty shellls. She also explains why it's important not to take home any shells. Or to keep hermit crabs as pets.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Giant clams trap divers by clamping shut on their hands or feet!<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpPnHjSnbfBWcbLWstKNwDkdMdvQhv7RWtj-UV3WpeKmox8FE9zECUrCjLp2DE01R0OnEw-T6XXPbXxcOpAYQuCjnIKGxOHo_KGaG7soA8Fb3lNqVSSgvBtAF36y9QF4q-ecOZ4LRFAE/s1600-h/Clam+C_03.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpPnHjSnbfBWcbLWstKNwDkdMdvQhv7RWtj-UV3WpeKmox8FE9zECUrCjLp2DE01R0OnEw-T6XXPbXxcOpAYQuCjnIKGxOHo_KGaG7soA8Fb3lNqVSSgvBtAF36y9QF4q-ecOZ4LRFAE/s400/Clam+C_03.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273577296654855874" border="0" /></a>Mei Lin our "Giant Clam Girl" blogs on this in <a href="http://psychedelic-nature.blogspot.com/2008/11/is-this-true.html">Is this true?</a> and dispells this misconception. In her work with them, she has found them to be very gentle creatures and she explains other reasons why this situation is impossible.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Who are these two?<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6rZD9wMhA2qh9SzPhRoh0_aww0nwajCxpAw9q3BHycAzRt1OrhEPO4eKnZ6elwgpIyyayYUpsq2IwRyjnBNgXwzP-0USM_awJTP2G3ZDAy4IAYbWWZQQ0egcxLYiXc5bJ3lPNj6Ex_c/s1600-h/3048450478_37fb0cb483.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6rZD9wMhA2qh9SzPhRoh0_aww0nwajCxpAw9q3BHycAzRt1OrhEPO4eKnZ6elwgpIyyayYUpsq2IwRyjnBNgXwzP-0USM_awJTP2G3ZDAy4IAYbWWZQQ0egcxLYiXc5bJ3lPNj6Ex_c/s400/3048450478_37fb0cb483.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5273577291889691938" border="0" /></a>Marcus blogs about the goby and snapping shrimp on <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/11/frequent-visitors-to-rubbly-shores-and-seagrass-patches-will-be-familiar-with-the-incessant-clicking-of-snapping-shrimps.html">Holemates</a> and shares lots of links about the endearing relationship between these two different animals, as well as how to identify them.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">How's Raffles Lighthouse reefs doing?</span><br /><br />Jeff blogs about the recent <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/raffles-lighthouse-coral-cover-11-oct-08/">deep transect</a> with the results.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What happened on the City Footprints show about volunteers for our shores?<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtObANZcMHWbJ82a4qWB_yiJl5RSP023vt8H0euUjywqQ08YqyQ2Vu4_B73IEx8R4XPfwGHnj_aJoSop8D1gZGZu_T8tou5b4nvHJjVZJKksyKKZNBWeuCHWTJw8IP3YUNit-1lB5L3sWG/s1600-h/3054907233_3c7bdc5e04.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtObANZcMHWbJ82a4qWB_yiJl5RSP023vt8H0euUjywqQ08YqyQ2Vu4_B73IEx8R4XPfwGHnj_aJoSop8D1gZGZu_T8tou5b4nvHJjVZJKksyKKZNBWeuCHWTJw8IP3YUNit-1lB5L3sWG/s400/3054907233_3c7bdc5e04.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5272837136067306434" border="0" /></a>Jun did an instant <a href="http://ashira.blogspot.com/2008/11/city-footprints-marine-champions.html">review of the programme</a> with lots of inside information.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What's new on the wildsingapore wildfacts site?<br /><br /></span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wildsingapore/2759961986/" title="Family Cirratulidae by wildsingapore, on Flickr"><img style="width: 403px; height: 298px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3058/2759961986_361675fca7.jpg" alt="Family Cirratulidae" /></a><br />WORMS! With kind comments from Leslie Harris, Ria has <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/460468917/wildfacts-updates-flatworms.html">updated flatworms, bristleworms and other worms</a> on the wildfacts site.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What recent developments have been announced that impact on our shores?</span><br /><br />Alas, several are listed on the wild shores of singapore<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRtvBEs9l2zMHnRfHlb0bWhmpGkrhgcX2mt5qqTIkIV2FttHBxsLJZsjYfXocO9RbgS-9kQnKIpPjeBxM1xr5eqHgbXUF1B7E2O0kK80uMY2fLklna-lCdrbmzmSjzYcpNczdAIlWBUL4/s1600-h/DSC_9830m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRtvBEs9l2zMHnRfHlb0bWhmpGkrhgcX2mt5qqTIkIV2FttHBxsLJZsjYfXocO9RbgS-9kQnKIpPjeBxM1xr5eqHgbXUF1B7E2O0kK80uMY2fLklna-lCdrbmzmSjzYcpNczdAIlWBUL4/s400/DSC_9830m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236174372059625810" border="0" /></a><ul><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/466828982/drilling-and-blasting-close-to-cyrene.html">Drilling and blasting close to Cyrene Reef until Feb 09</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/466057687/water-skiing-site-designated-near.html">Water skiing site designated near Sentosa's natural shore</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/460280390/massive-dredging-off-cyrene-reef.html">Massive dredging off Cyrene Reef continues until May 09</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/460264379/upcoming-works-near-pulau-jong.html">Upcoming works near Pulau Jong?</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/460252246/shore-construction-at-sungei-punggol.html">Shore construction at Sungei Punggol continues until May 09</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/466828983/another-oil-rig-parked-off-pulau_27.html">Another oil rig parked off Pulau Semakau: 'Aban Pearl'</a></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-61700534239825026552008-11-20T07:17:00.002+08:002008-11-20T15:48:42.523+08:00Giant clam, special stars and other low tide surprises<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6EKcDAXeumqDRaOy473tjLXuGw8WR0c5zstVGmbxtl1vuMmNZQRE_2vU4EtedJJwd2TTvemyFPo6zcRfguK8elmp5s5QXt92gFHe6Uu44AN_yhKP3f8ezFE_t22XPuE0iDouVxaRNE8/s1600-h/cyr141108p04.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 171px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6EKcDAXeumqDRaOy473tjLXuGw8WR0c5zstVGmbxtl1vuMmNZQRE_2vU4EtedJJwd2TTvemyFPo6zcRfguK8elmp5s5QXt92gFHe6Uu44AN_yhKP3f8ezFE_t22XPuE0iDouVxaRNE8/s400/cyr141108p04.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270637388449401842" border="0" /></a>Our living shores never cease to surprise. This super low tide period, lots of exciting encounters during the flurry of shore by various groups. From rare clams to special stars, delightful dollars and other curious critters.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Among the special finds was this Giant clam. It was seen on Pulau Jong, an island in the middle of our shipping lanes, next to our landfill, major bunkering facilities and petrochemical plants! Mei Lin aka the "Giant Clam Girl" who was on this field trip pronounced it to be <span style="font-style: italic;">Tridacna maxima</span>, of which only one other specimen has so far been seen, on Raffles Lighthouse!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1H0t47sw3ymphyHu_S5bTzzfgniRkXWmnrbhM3L22CNiFePDgNsGea9QREt_9LhBMEQxYbnQ7Pm6U07y9wVOz5b8u1Zpvg1zarsDQNJtSFy7SyFgJM9vLtR-4cHZvAPWlC0HQq9-geeI/s1600-h/DSC_1774m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1H0t47sw3ymphyHu_S5bTzzfgniRkXWmnrbhM3L22CNiFePDgNsGea9QREt_9LhBMEQxYbnQ7Pm6U07y9wVOz5b8u1Zpvg1zarsDQNJtSFy7SyFgJM9vLtR-4cHZvAPWlC0HQq9-geeI/s400/DSC_1774m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268316001476628514" border="0" /></a> Read all about the clam on <a href="http://psychedelic-nature.blogspot.com/2008/11/name-is-jong-jong-xiao-bao.html">her brand new Psychedelic Nature blog</a> and how this clam is sadly "functionally extinct" in Singapore. The intrepid team hazarded the landing on the <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/452438874/pulau-jong-with-giant-suprise.html">aptly named "No Problem"</a>. The trip was a contrast of molluscs from <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/11/of-dwarfs-and-giant.html">tiny slugs to the giant clam</a>; lush vegetation and <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/11/maxima-giant-clam-at-jong.html">other special finds</a>.<br /><br />Special stars were also seen on various shores!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmYoH96l18u9lvalxneMO1kELMMyvnNPYPUGCsR7qPVCVo2MSEAgP8_XnbPe_iZn2_U_fTzZmZilMdaKB_DKTJZNygV5dn9ilZ4PlIePbTzWQUvlgNYsP-UZRuHSUcZ9LuK26Mbn5UyE/s1600-h/PB140064.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 356px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmYoH96l18u9lvalxneMO1kELMMyvnNPYPUGCsR7qPVCVo2MSEAgP8_XnbPe_iZn2_U_fTzZmZilMdaKB_DKTJZNygV5dn9ilZ4PlIePbTzWQUvlgNYsP-UZRuHSUcZ9LuK26Mbn5UyE/s400/PB140064.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270620075703127922" border="0" /></a>At Pulau Semakau, this sea star encountered <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/11/new-star-discovery.html">seemed to be something new</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaspjUwLIkRnT3lJaGaVBDeptvywM06vB81t7BHHPWHPJJ6ztGSO9tbzfhmBxbvdrDLUtacBOu3OzIvxgsNi5m1FboyBGvv93tP5-uQFD7iCEEzEWCoi4TTpx8U34xO9N6fU_z7LIDPsg/s1600-h/PB150099.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaspjUwLIkRnT3lJaGaVBDeptvywM06vB81t7BHHPWHPJJ6ztGSO9tbzfhmBxbvdrDLUtacBOu3OzIvxgsNi5m1FboyBGvv93tP5-uQFD7iCEEzEWCoi4TTpx8U34xO9N6fU_z7LIDPsg/s400/PB150099.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270623625521988802" border="0" /></a>And another star that <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/11/semakau-has-another-star.html">might be <span style="font-style: italic;">Pentaceraster mammilatus</span></a>. This star was <a href="http://wildsingaporenews.blogspot.com/2008/05/new-star-for-singapore-discovery-of-sea.html">first discovered on Cyrene Reef</a> and is a first record for Singapore. Semakau also seemed to have a <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/11/jorunna-funebris-fever-at-semakau.html">surfeit of slugs</a> this time around.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu74nPlqrVVkQeeS1V-jTa0Ukbg2dpJRLTAdqYenzu-flskaX42DR3Nu_lw1m3lYhTGEK0jtBJDNhNOGrbb2j0ZtuoJ8WQBxwI3gg_N3X0mDuF2MgjIxxISgPswpxqdlXHp7QHISqcjM8/s1600-h/DSC_1836m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBu74nPlqrVVkQeeS1V-jTa0Ukbg2dpJRLTAdqYenzu-flskaX42DR3Nu_lw1m3lYhTGEK0jtBJDNhNOGrbb2j0ZtuoJ8WQBxwI3gg_N3X0mDuF2MgjIxxISgPswpxqdlXHp7QHISqcjM8/s400/DSC_1836m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268652568053856418" border="0" /></a>While at Cyrene Reef, there was the usual <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/11/cyrene-deathstar.html">over abundance of Knobbly sea stars</a>, including <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/453618090/clear-skies-over-cyrene.html">one WITHOUT knobs</a>, the sand bar was teeming with Common sea stars and there was the <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/11/evening-with-cyrene.html">first sighting of a biscuit sea star there</a>. Besides <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/11/the-crabby-side-of-cyrene-reef.html">amazing crabs</a>, there were also batfish, 'Nemos' including <a href="http://psychedelic-nature.blogspot.com/2008/11/evening-with-baby-nemo-at-cyrene.html">a really tiny one</a>, and lots more. Samuel's first trip to Cyrene inspired him to start his <a href="http://aesthetic-voyager.blogspot.com/2008/11/first-trip-to-cyrene.html">Aesthetic Voyager blog</a>.<br /><br />More special sea star sightings were made at mainland shores such as Pasir Ris.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSqq3-XlMO9h9XPizcg3il8snWTcF0mscF4AJ_WjBMekenqKADozLIhQdD953Iu0BxhEvQPTUH7ezZauYWnsKeDCr2GcQ-zZk_prqPQAoxE4LVGIbeK16drqvb3dahxg6FJw5l2KD6oU/s1600-h/psr171108p01.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 286px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSSqq3-XlMO9h9XPizcg3il8snWTcF0mscF4AJ_WjBMekenqKADozLIhQdD953Iu0BxhEvQPTUH7ezZauYWnsKeDCr2GcQ-zZk_prqPQAoxE4LVGIbeK16drqvb3dahxg6FJw5l2KD6oU/s400/psr171108p01.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270624507947310290" border="0" /></a>Where several <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/11/stars-without-five-arms-at-pasir-ris.html">sea stars with more than five arms</a> were seen.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLDtP4ic06dN1TOukzKdthLMRm5R8dTQHxnBxAiPZGZxIZnw-WXpfxbMbUoe-vwsoBsuGeTwK7JbiMcILRbKNN-RE-RuhoYG4OK_IZl00xkHgaDGMnMIMNYAz2oPiHBAIDVtZP2On-xky/s1600-h/DSC_2176m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMLDtP4ic06dN1TOukzKdthLMRm5R8dTQHxnBxAiPZGZxIZnw-WXpfxbMbUoe-vwsoBsuGeTwK7JbiMcILRbKNN-RE-RuhoYG4OK_IZl00xkHgaDGMnMIMNYAz2oPiHBAIDVtZP2On-xky/s400/DSC_2176m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269281911854921650" border="0" /></a>And at Changi where a <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/455381543/changi-with-baby-knobbly-sea-star.html">small baby Knobbly sea star</a> was seen.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOonH5Gv5wIf_SVfHm4mj3Pl5S0pQP6kqtLLHFarxllzOGIxSerMGuE3vpZdiE5PowtismzGK0XRS9nm8wxNOZVKpO9J00_m899oR0JjkXndGnIgdWimF4t9UIxk24098GbGT3CIg1Yb9d/s1600-h/DSC_2310m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOonH5Gv5wIf_SVfHm4mj3Pl5S0pQP6kqtLLHFarxllzOGIxSerMGuE3vpZdiE5PowtismzGK0XRS9nm8wxNOZVKpO9J00_m899oR0JjkXndGnIgdWimF4t9UIxk24098GbGT3CIg1Yb9d/s400/DSC_2310m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269671167057661858" border="0" /></a>A new shore was also explored revealing <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/456170347/rare-sand-dollars-and-other-surprises.html">special sand dollars</a> and other surprises.<br /><br />There was also a rather sad check up on the <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/454549580/how-is-labrador-nature-reserve-shore.html">massive coastal developments</a> and <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/11/the-sad-state-of-labrador.html">other impacts </a>near Labrador Nature Reserve. Students also recently presented about their project on the <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/449589180/study-of-effects-of-cofferdam-on.html">impact of the cofferdam on Labrador shore</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/454549579/how-is-sentosas-natural-shore-doing.html">Sentosa's shores was also recced</a> for an upcoming walk by the Naked Hermit Crabs where a very <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/11/sentosa-blue-spotted-fantail-ray.html">obliging baby stingray</a> gave some good video clips.<br /><br />The Blue Water Volunteers also did a Kusu Island Reefwalk but have yet to blog about it.<br /><br />Other events during the period includes the first <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/446020827/echinoderm-excess-madness-at-first.html">Workshop for Nature Guides</a> by the <a href="http://leafmonkeyworkshop.blogspot.com/">Leafmonkey Workshop</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNAKnkWtEeT8pjiYrEk4uRpki4g0Cb8V9jX8Pw8s-5S5bkVIYk4ZkRPt27zquSCobGCTEf_-S1a5piS55Lp4GLSCvWcfCpjYxFdkvlayrEm8o0sUgIVN-t6fzuaVHoI0c4eaL1mfey1n_/s1600-h/PB070511m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNAKnkWtEeT8pjiYrEk4uRpki4g0Cb8V9jX8Pw8s-5S5bkVIYk4ZkRPt27zquSCobGCTEf_-S1a5piS55Lp4GLSCvWcfCpjYxFdkvlayrEm8o0sUgIVN-t6fzuaVHoI0c4eaL1mfey1n_/s400/PB070511m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5266062294119317634" border="0" /></a>A sporting group of nature guides had lots of fun creating and learning about echinoderms. Come for <a href="http://leafmonkeyworkshop.blogspot.com/2008/10/easy-not-hard-cnidarians-workshop.html">the next workshop</a> which will be about cnidarians.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">More web updates</span><br /><ul><li>Our nudis IDed on the Colourful Clouds blog: a <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/11/i-am-orange-one.html">bright orange one</a> and a <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/11/who-am-i.html">tiny one</a>.</li><li>Latest announcements on coastal developments, on the wild shores of singapore blog: at <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/458107698/reclamation-at-pulau-tekong-extended-to.html">Pulau Tekong</a> and <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/454447151/more-shore-works-for-sentosa-ir.html">Sentosa</a>.</li><li>Recent updates on Wildfacts of <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/449077598/wildfacts-updates-singapores-rarer.html">our rarer echinoderms</a>.</li></ul><span class="fullpost"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Some upcoming reef and marine events</span></span><ul><li>6 & 7 Dec (Sat & Sun): <a href="http://habitatnews.nus.edu.sg/index.php?entry=/events/20081118-sbaw2008.txt">Adventures in the Mud talk</a>, and walk and specimen examination by the Toddycats at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve </li><li>6 & 7 Dec (Sat & Sun): <a href="http://iyor08singapore.blogspot.com/2008/10/6-7-dec-sat-sun-sungei-buloh-wetland.html">Amazing Mangrove Adventure </a>and other activities at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve's anniversary celebrations<br /></li><li>5 Dec (Fri): <a href="http://leafmonkeyworkshop.blogspot.com/2008/10/easy-not-hard-cnidarians-workshop.html">Workshop for Nature Guides - Cnidarians</a> by the Leafmonkey Workshop<br /></li><li>30 Nov (Sun): <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/">Dive Pulau Hantu</a> with the Hantu Bloggers<br /></li><li>30 Nov (Sun): <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/">Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour</a> with the Naked Hermit Crabs</li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-13109837135578769452008-11-03T10:28:00.000+08:002008-11-03T10:46:59.166+08:00Comet, City Mangroves and other surprises<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Nlam5RRF_FEog-ggsVL13-EgPJ_hT1QvrgVyx4X8_jUUmSSpb_SAy1IIQDHxoykuo9fuEW6mlR24Ov8QFLBqTv6Z3wK2deGMKk3TWiuxgPqzUhZpg1trhc_SXgDQ8iC7swpP7Nlm6DjQ/s1600-h/DSC_1596m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; float: right; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 178px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Nlam5RRF_FEog-ggsVL13-EgPJ_hT1QvrgVyx4X8_jUUmSSpb_SAy1IIQDHxoykuo9fuEW6mlR24Ov8QFLBqTv6Z3wK2deGMKk3TWiuxgPqzUhZpg1trhc_SXgDQ8iC7swpP7Nlm6DjQ/s400/DSC_1596m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263658705459419794" border="0" /></a>The big event of the fortnight was the launch of the Marina Barrage, festooned with perky Water Wallies. Near the Barrage was a small patch of mangroves! A Comet blazed and lit up a recent Hantu dive, while during the not-so-low tide some shores were explored with more interesting encounters.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The intrepid Hantu Bloggers had <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/blog-log-26-october-2008/">another fantastic dive at Pulau Hantu</a>. Sightings included new nudis and the elusive and amazing Comet! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigS9BjO5ZM8oGov5bu8AzhvDv-8Kqj1VIQMYj6KokZKg08iOGZCm53q-LTk6lBqJAUGaqr2bEMClrAmzytd98k9Wqjqjgnua_5xDqpyqKofyEeCEI7RyNye6wfXtpnYm0Q9Z5nIxS6L-I/s1600-h/2978257222_87b906b879.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigS9BjO5ZM8oGov5bu8AzhvDv-8Kqj1VIQMYj6KokZKg08iOGZCm53q-LTk6lBqJAUGaqr2bEMClrAmzytd98k9Wqjqjgnua_5xDqpyqKofyEeCEI7RyNye6wfXtpnYm0Q9Z5nIxS6L-I/s400/2978257222_87b906b879.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264254659303008146" border="0" /></a>Reef Check had a session at <a href="http://dolphymanta.multiply.com/photos/album/104/Reef_Survey_Jong_261008">Pulau Jong</a> and sightings of remoras.<br /><br />A quick lowish tide check of <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/438164309/sentosa-surprises.html">Sentosa revealed surprises</a> including a pair of snapping shrimps in Acropora hard coral!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoAxYCnsYbSVS52s5OVox8zqMIzJ53ZuXUXnqDPvK4sba5AyHRXOMabs0jwYpueakKsjDslkxaycpIVzY2ONTaymjJnf5I6Pu-fBjz0uHlEt8ZKtvxZcEJKlj3HgCtBgH4RatPVpIthUn/s1600-h/DSC_1491m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEoAxYCnsYbSVS52s5OVox8zqMIzJ53ZuXUXnqDPvK4sba5AyHRXOMabs0jwYpueakKsjDslkxaycpIVzY2ONTaymjJnf5I6Pu-fBjz0uHlEt8ZKtvxZcEJKlj3HgCtBgH4RatPVpIthUn/s400/DSC_1491m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263331673094609154" border="0" /></a>Meanwhile, the launch of the Marina Barrage resulted in a barrage of blog posts. With <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/11/marina-barrage-is-opened-beautiful.html">overviews</a> of this new reservoir in the city, and discovery of a <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/439048901/mangroves-at-marina-barrage.html">little patch of mangroves</a> on the Marina East side of the Barrage with mudskippers, blooming trees and busy fishermen.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbWnuDw8AbynVVkYGB_U5MyoAhgsLfIBAdYQZQRMpu076ROiyDR3YoXqBn4W3EiB_N7uT_DyeuVGejaPd0puU3A00BuyhA8RhI2gokXUOFZb2kJRhFJ3Ubf1FccL8mWY_UjyGi1IgN9xv/s1600-h/DSC_1620m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbWnuDw8AbynVVkYGB_U5MyoAhgsLfIBAdYQZQRMpu076ROiyDR3YoXqBn4W3EiB_N7uT_DyeuVGejaPd0puU3A00BuyhA8RhI2gokXUOFZb2kJRhFJ3Ubf1FccL8mWY_UjyGi1IgN9xv/s400/DSC_1620m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263658864496360514" border="0" /></a>At the same time, there was an effort to reach <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/11/marina-barrage-opened-marina-east.html">Marina East from the East Coast</a> side with some adventures along the way. There were also explorations to <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/10/other-side-of-st-john-island.html">the other side of St John's Island</a> and at <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/11/another-low-tide-semakau.html">Pulau Semakau</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Outreach for the shores</span><br /><br />The Barrage was also the location of this year's Clean and Green Singapore launch. <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/11/young-seagrassers-at-clean-and-green.html">The young seagrassers from RGS</a> who are monitoring <a href="http://labradorpark.wordpress.com/">Labrador meadows</a> had a booth to share about our seagrass meadows.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitL-O5QKJZnqxkTUda2WwTgV_D3dOK1CpYaFAY8MAdVYo_Jn4L4_2va9XsNH33fKixU4L7B5G7iuItt0a91oEcN_Rvmtv_VinT1Eaxc1Tee8IoTn_rszdWaL3sAgAZ1KqkDxoM2Hiuki5M/s1600-h/DSC_1544m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitL-O5QKJZnqxkTUda2WwTgV_D3dOK1CpYaFAY8MAdVYo_Jn4L4_2va9XsNH33fKixU4L7B5G7iuItt0a91oEcN_Rvmtv_VinT1Eaxc1Tee8IoTn_rszdWaL3sAgAZ1KqkDxoM2Hiuki5M/s400/DSC_1544m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263658342889899554" border="0" /></a>Throughout the Carnival, there was also a whole <a href="http://iyor08singapore.blogspot.com/2008/10/this-weekend-talks-about-our-reefs.html">range of talks</a> about our reefs, marine biodiversity and Chek Jawa among others.<br /><br />The NParks portion of the Carnival also had an interesting wall for people to leave comments about our wild places. There were <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/439048901/mangroves-at-marina-barrage.html">some comments about our shores</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYZH1UWKbSKg32SkQ85KOP5O7nzbuvONMp8MY-jKG_97a8CfhU7MgilXyBAXCdBFtRIDdmrQM60s4c4TyjkMOJBXRy9NRrzF3je0bsbcsQkfS1XmWSduYfyQ2A35jx2lmbVb5Ivpr-FC5/s1600-h/DSC_1563m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpYZH1UWKbSKg32SkQ85KOP5O7nzbuvONMp8MY-jKG_97a8CfhU7MgilXyBAXCdBFtRIDdmrQM60s4c4TyjkMOJBXRy9NRrzF3je0bsbcsQkfS1XmWSduYfyQ2A35jx2lmbVb5Ivpr-FC5/s400/DSC_1563m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263658534124667378" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">More web updates</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/10/2009-monitoring-dates.html">TeamSeagrass monitoring dates for 2009</a> are now on the blog.<br /></li><li>Origin of the name <a href="http://cat64fish.wordpress.com/2008/10/23/the-origin-of-the-name-lazarus-island/">Lazarus Island</a>.<br /></li><li>Some updates of nudis with the ID for a <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/10/unknown-nudibranch-from-big-sisters.html">cute nudi at Sisters Island</a> and <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/10/they-have-been-ided.html">the wondrous Melibe</a> too.</li><li>About the <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/10/26th-oct-milestone-achieved.html">recent Chek Jawa boardwalk tour</a> with the Naked Hermit Crabs</li><li>About the recent <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-walk/reef-walk-18-oct-2008/">Kusu Island reefwalk</a> with the Blue Water Volunteers.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Some upcoming reef and marine events</span><br /><ul><li>30 Nov (Sun): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/10/30-nov-sun-dive-pulau-hantu-with-hantu.html">Dive Pulau Hantu</a> with the Hantu Bloggers</li><li>30 Nov (Sun): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/10/30-nov-sun-free-chek-jawa-boardwalk.html">Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour</a> with the Naked Hermit Crabs<br /></li><li>15 Nov (Sat): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/11/15-nov-sat-kusu-island-reefwalk-with.html">Kusu Island Reefwalk</a> with the Blue Water Volunteers</li><li>15 Nov (Sat): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/10/15-nov-sat-horseshoe-crab-rescue.html">Horseshoe Crab Rescue and Research</a> with the Nature Society (Singapore)<br /></li><li>7 Nov (Fri): <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/433680288/7-nov-fri-workhop-for-nature-guides.html">Workshop for Nature Guides - Echinoderms</a> by the Leafmonkey Workshops </li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Some recent issues</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/430725724/flood-warning-issued-for-east-johor.html">Flood warning issued for East Johor: will Chek Jawa be affected?</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/429187621/crane-barge-to-work-off-sentosas.html">Crane barge to work off Sentosa's natural shore</a></li></ul><br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-58959066956970823512008-10-22T10:27:00.007+08:002008-10-22T11:45:23.528+08:00Highlights of the lows: corals, seagrasses and more!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao1n8VvNFLtaO9BcZD8VR_uHzrCUT2rdupY-mQtXAgL6wFBDwOnv8O98ZmTMON6DM4YZHCu-itbXKLK1LsWCicMH1T8yDI-8dQ9XgSlSWtP93PvTz_1NetvI-wic00ZYrBL0DbVbfaVKd/s1600-h/DSC_0883m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 249px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao1n8VvNFLtaO9BcZD8VR_uHzrCUT2rdupY-mQtXAgL6wFBDwOnv8O98ZmTMON6DM4YZHCu-itbXKLK1LsWCicMH1T8yDI-8dQ9XgSlSWtP93PvTz_1NetvI-wic00ZYrBL0DbVbfaVKd/s400/DSC_0883m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257778930194129394" border="0" /></a>As the evening low tides begin, exploration of our shores continues. There's also lots of outreach activities through public walks, as well as monitoring work for our shores.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Way before the low spring tides started, the <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/pulau-satumu-survey-11-oct-2008/">Blue Water Volunteers</a> conducted a reef survey of the fantabulous reefs of Raffles Lighthouse (on Pulau Satumu).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HyTs5esC9OFyBfgpNEUxd-Te2-5GfEKWjqRZMHVZcVnnIP1gqFOIRyYhYngUXIqMfZJe9j3-9GlXho_vYxotW-4MSmR-0hja5oYXkLke5BCOdLItTFA5LVjwBsQ_cI0oHt1bkgyi-6M/s1600-h/P1010013a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1HyTs5esC9OFyBfgpNEUxd-Te2-5GfEKWjqRZMHVZcVnnIP1gqFOIRyYhYngUXIqMfZJe9j3-9GlXho_vYxotW-4MSmR-0hja5oYXkLke5BCOdLItTFA5LVjwBsQ_cI0oHt1bkgyi-6M/s400/P1010013a.jpg" alt="photo from HBing's memories" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259811004163405266" border="0" /></a>With <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/10/reef-survey-pulau-satumu.html">more photos</a> and <a href="http://dolphymanta.multiply.com/photos/album/103/BWV_Reef_Survey_at_RLH_111008">yet more photos</a> and video clips of <a href="http://dolphymanta.multiply.com/video/item/16/False_clownfishRLH">clown anemonefish</a> and <a href="http://dolphymanta.multiply.com/video/item/17/SweetlipsRLH">sweetlips</a>. There were also some <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/421654037/raffles-lighthouse-singapores.html">recent media reports about Raffles Lighthouse</a> as part of Maritime Week.<br /><br />The <a href="http://startrackers.blogspot.com/">Star Trackers</a> and friends visited Cyrene Reef, despite all odds. As usual, lots of work got done and all kinds of marine life were encountered. This tiny gorgeous slug was <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/10/quick-trip-cyrene-reef.html">found</a> and <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/10/an-hour-of-cyrenity.html">photographed</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJiBXu47y1HXMQ8q8lt-odRx7dJHt5753SsRmxsRqqEsH_GihpYlxy8hAhuL5mblADMek8vNGQGfBC963dZEhlMDrm9eMYpV5T5dMs7pxcdwElT_4_FDgRT23Pr3DkZ4qBtTrq4CJoyQ/s1600-h/2947635294_7e8783a5f7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHJiBXu47y1HXMQ8q8lt-odRx7dJHt5753SsRmxsRqqEsH_GihpYlxy8hAhuL5mblADMek8vNGQGfBC963dZEhlMDrm9eMYpV5T5dMs7pxcdwElT_4_FDgRT23Pr3DkZ4qBtTrq4CJoyQ/s400/2947635294_7e8783a5f7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259803383887488098" border="0" /></a>While <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/10/strange-anemonecyrene.html">a strange anemone</a> was filmed and a <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/423391141/cyrene-quickly.html">Giant clam</a> spotted.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczfEq2N8N-3jxItK2J6nzSfvcOA4MObx2bXuP4g_vOpIXVM0aVLIPrYjwibCpqRRU4HZ7EXV4H7Hwtd-6Z_mOXTdqNna2tnzqAO0YquKrAWjCBywsRAHj4K5LaB5rQfgUJSIx97RiHrdX/s1600-h/_DSC0024m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhczfEq2N8N-3jxItK2J6nzSfvcOA4MObx2bXuP4g_vOpIXVM0aVLIPrYjwibCpqRRU4HZ7EXV4H7Hwtd-6Z_mOXTdqNna2tnzqAO0YquKrAWjCBywsRAHj4K5LaB5rQfgUJSIx97RiHrdX/s400/_DSC0024m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257778707852531842" border="0" /></a>And this strange slug found on seagrass!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKZdMZ7h1EU6ja-2_6oCPwVM9yxwd3q9NdLEwr9aH68ZCyXHRzBE_jLuWDQRuG09fH40Ydn7Vd8lMbKmoEyYHjKvNnvn7D64gckWODMla5_SS86jjc6_aNIsVoRkDKz3-10Z25F1_Qpip/s1600-h/DSC_0926m6a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOKZdMZ7h1EU6ja-2_6oCPwVM9yxwd3q9NdLEwr9aH68ZCyXHRzBE_jLuWDQRuG09fH40Ydn7Vd8lMbKmoEyYHjKvNnvn7D64gckWODMla5_SS86jjc6_aNIsVoRkDKz3-10Z25F1_Qpip/s400/DSC_0926m6a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257779117974307698" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/">TeamSeagrass</a> was also hard at work during the recent low tides. Young Seagrassers from RGS were at <a href="http://labradorpark.wordpress.com/2008/10/21/161008-seagrass-monitoring/">Labrador</a> to check up on the seagrasses there. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBwOS_QBeS0npcFJTfmbYZcahwo5yoG2IpbKD2jYnc6SeE7GDyjRpGATbEDAUhFHfKuuy4QrpFaukzwImt4zwXrGteUuq2_SMXfJBgCMyI5GhvEIkHiKQwFAlbT0dumL9MzV2SyYhC8zg/s1600-h/DSC_0986m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBwOS_QBeS0npcFJTfmbYZcahwo5yoG2IpbKD2jYnc6SeE7GDyjRpGATbEDAUhFHfKuuy4QrpFaukzwImt4zwXrGteUuq2_SMXfJBgCMyI5GhvEIkHiKQwFAlbT0dumL9MzV2SyYhC8zg/s400/DSC_0986m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258281983716729586" border="0" /></a>The <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/10/sentosa-17-oct-08.html">Sentosa monitoring</a> found the seagrasses doing well, and there was also a huge <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/424187939/bryopsis-bloom-on-sentosa.html">bloom of seaweeds</a> there. Here's a video clip of the <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/10/sentosa-shortclips.html">various marine life</a> at Sentosa.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHBxm4Coa5Ov7-RJBRQahvcBLcrI4N_lzgpJBZoHStP0Y-YRPtWUoaefREJ4VCmreyeipvpBHQKirsQH2gwDAUXig_am0G5K8bFFp902iLH0FgyJdFDYuBVwh4HiLZXCo2l3CL7fRn7Nql/s1600-h/DSC_1046m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHBxm4Coa5Ov7-RJBRQahvcBLcrI4N_lzgpJBZoHStP0Y-YRPtWUoaefREJ4VCmreyeipvpBHQKirsQH2gwDAUXig_am0G5K8bFFp902iLH0FgyJdFDYuBVwh4HiLZXCo2l3CL7fRn7Nql/s400/DSC_1046m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258641040923355026" border="0" /></a>There was a strong turn out of the Team for <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/10/chek-jawa-18-oct-08.html">Chek Jawa monitoring</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVJpJVKu9YQ0kTIuVjsIteAQRtnDlrQStM2E8LZ7omgtOlnUTu3q8sCsgvamRvwaoXN2QYRTWSr5pxRAQVmcvp5aTWYMobmQHNMzx0LiEiZNLwuGn1uqFGpUuRA7z4ghjJOMrz8gapQE0/s1600-h/DSC_1206m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVJpJVKu9YQ0kTIuVjsIteAQRtnDlrQStM2E8LZ7omgtOlnUTu3q8sCsgvamRvwaoXN2QYRTWSr5pxRAQVmcvp5aTWYMobmQHNMzx0LiEiZNLwuGn1uqFGpUuRA7z4ghjJOMrz8gapQE0/s400/DSC_1206m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258641652750754034" border="0" /></a>It was also a chance to do a <a href="http://cjproject.blogspot.com/2008/10/quick-check-at-coral-rubble.html">quick check on recovery on Chek Jawa</a> especially the coral rubble area, with <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/425047534/chek-jawa-check-up-on-coral-rubble-area.html">three baby Knobbly sea stars</a> seen and strange behaviour observed between <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/10/anemones-kite-butterfly-fish-chek-jawa.html">butterflyfish and peacock anemone</a>.<br /><br />Changi was also visited with <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/10/not-so-low-at-changi.html">sightings of sea stars</a> galore and this strange sea cucumber.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXQd8Ly9unPS5WYpohWvmlAq8Yj_mMvN0_nl1uRQFgZuqV_9MxxNZ2hEg8wBpNZ35tgB6ys5pwJnrO3nTZRaXHw1sbiO_g1Z_izNLuK4lKYhswHorDiCrRGzYmRDV4pegR9QNtDBpBNw/s1600-h/chg191008p22.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXQd8Ly9unPS5WYpohWvmlAq8Yj_mMvN0_nl1uRQFgZuqV_9MxxNZ2hEg8wBpNZ35tgB6ys5pwJnrO3nTZRaXHw1sbiO_g1Z_izNLuK4lKYhswHorDiCrRGzYmRDV4pegR9QNtDBpBNw/s400/chg191008p22.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259809195492673186" border="0" /></a>Elsewhere on Changi, <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/10/comical-worm.html">cute worms</a> and <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/426044459/moons-on-changi.html">other creatures</a> were seen.<br /><br />When it's super low, it means there's a super high tide too. What happens at<a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/super-high-at-chek-jawa.html"> super high tide on Chek Jawa?</a> and more about <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/2009-tide-tables-are-out.html">tides in Singapore</a>.<br /><br />The Blue Water Volunteers also conducted a walk at Kusu Island (but have yet to blog about it). Marcus shares a glimpse into what happens during <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/10/songs-for-gods-music-for-men.html">the Kusu pilgrimage</a>. While on Semakau there was <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/10/semakau-inter-tidal-walk-on-18-oct-2008.html">an intertidal walk</a> as well as the <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/10/semakau-ceo-run-2008.html">CEO Run</a>. There was also a field trip to <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/10/sister-island-exploration-on-19-oct-08.html">Sisters Island</a>.<br /><br /><span class="fullpost"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other updates</span> on our reefs and marine life<br /></span><ul><li><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/fish-or-jellyfish-pomfret-mimicks.html">Fish or jellyfish?</a> Our pomfret mimicks jellyfish!</span></li><li><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/09/another-new-record-from-east-coast-park.html">Another new record from the East Coast</a>: a clam!<br /></span></li></ul><span class="fullpost"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other shore issues</span> discussed recently<br /></span><ul><li><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/singapore-shipping-industry-addressing.html">Singapore shipping industry: addressing environmental concerns</a> during Maritime Week.</span></li><li><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/singapore-to-be-sulphur-emission.html">Singapore to be Sulphur Emission Control Area by 2015?</a> and what this means for the marine environment.</span></li><li><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/singapores-marine-protected-areas-where.html">Singapore's marine protected areas: where?</a></span></li><li><span class="fullpost"><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/09/full-text-of-parliamentary-discussion.html">Full text of parliamentary discussion</a> on rising sea levels in Singapore<br /></span></li></ul><span class="fullpost"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Updates on on-going works on our shores</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/works-on-sentosa-bridge-continues-to.html">Work on Sentosa bridge</a> continues to Apr 09<br /></li><li><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/another-oil-rig-to-park-off-pulau.html">Another oil rig</a> to park off Semakau</li><li><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/dredging-off-east-coast-and-dumping-at.html">Dredging off East Coast and dumping off Labrador</a></li><li><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/10/work-on-sungei-punggol-dam-continues.html">Work on Punggol dam</a> continues</li><li><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/09/off-cyrene-reef-dredging-at-pasir.html">Dredging at Pasir Panjang</a> off Cyrene Reef continues</li><li><a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/09/next-to-labrador-and-off-sentosa.html">Reclamation off Labrador</a> and off Sentosa continues<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Upcoming shore events</span><br /><ul><li>26 Oct (Sun): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/09/26-oct-sun-dive-pulau-hantu-with-hantu.html" target="_self">Dive Pulau Hantu</a> with the Hantu Bloggers<br /></li><li>26 Oct (Sun): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/09/26-oct-sun-free-chek-jawa-boardwalk.html" target="_self">Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour</a> with the Naked Hermit Crab</li></ul></span><br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-25891081988675188952008-10-05T09:21:00.003+08:002008-10-05T18:34:25.814+08:00Sluggish on F1 day and other recent reef happenings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCx5B9xSfuZ-UFg1uFeUqICGqMSWjMZ14CGOC9sVqI-JowlxnfGhtA1aUPohMK_OIDofmPinRYHfz8Dm9tgyVmvWOb0OnlN_VBlHL-kBm5qMYqUXSRczwoVOme5GuaamBet7G1IKX82zM/s1600-h/DSCF3720.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; float: right; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 161px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCx5B9xSfuZ-UFg1uFeUqICGqMSWjMZ14CGOC9sVqI-JowlxnfGhtA1aUPohMK_OIDofmPinRYHfz8Dm9tgyVmvWOb0OnlN_VBlHL-kBm5qMYqUXSRczwoVOme5GuaamBet7G1IKX82zM/s400/DSCF3720.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253613736460352818" border="0" /></a>While F1 was going on, things were <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/more-reef-critters-from-f1-weekend/">sluggish at Pulau Hantu</a> with sightings of nudis galore, and <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/nudibranches-and-acoel-flatworms/">acoel flatworms</a> as well as a <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/09/pipefish-that-has-gone-to-dark-side.html">strange pipefish that had gone to the dark side</a>. <br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Lots of <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/blog-log-28-september-2008/">photos shared</a> including a <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/09/pipefish-that-has-gone-to-dark-side.html">video clip of a six-banded angelfish.</a> Among the surprises were these amazing <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/tritonia/">Tritonia nudibranchs</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NJNwhJHG3zM74JQLUSstEHJgQDBXgy67uY7FJ3SdGVquV84gB9JUSK7iEcguv5KW-ho0HMHpdlaeQn6GsvZ_FOt-vphzehyphenhyphenMLSRypoBpzbu08FhH6pIfvhegWD8hcyYj0dGJ3bzPl7o/s1600-h/P1010048a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0NJNwhJHG3zM74JQLUSstEHJgQDBXgy67uY7FJ3SdGVquV84gB9JUSK7iEcguv5KW-ho0HMHpdlaeQn6GsvZ_FOt-vphzehyphenhyphenMLSRypoBpzbu08FhH6pIfvhegWD8hcyYj0dGJ3bzPl7o/s400/P1010048a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253613741378511746" border="0" /></a>Apparently in California, they grow to as long as 30 cm and weigh nearly 2 kg! The ones at Hantu are much smaller.<br /><br />Meanwhile the Semakau guides brought a bunch of kids on the intertidal walk for Children's Day.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PrwuGt0rhjuoTE-p1iSmrNJwwXuuMvrnU7xvzevDhqUKw_DPLMfNQee2AQV7ri8YWOBZ5fK_L3hJfsSFwTBExY3MaYyYHFmgOyt3_3kvCavpTFHhsPjQW0FfJlsOs3TwlXfJkLnxtYM/s1600-h/P1220382.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0PrwuGt0rhjuoTE-p1iSmrNJwwXuuMvrnU7xvzevDhqUKw_DPLMfNQee2AQV7ri8YWOBZ5fK_L3hJfsSFwTBExY3MaYyYHFmgOyt3_3kvCavpTFHhsPjQW0FfJlsOs3TwlXfJkLnxtYM/s400/P1220382.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253613741616477474" border="0" /></a>More about their day out on the <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/semakau">many blog posts by the various guides</a>.<br /><br />Over at Chek Jawa, the <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/">Naked Hermit Crabs</a> also conducted the usual end of the month guided tour of the boardwalk.<br /><br />TeamSeagrass had their <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/09/teamseagrass-orientation-2008-looking.html">annual get together</a> to get updates and discuss new directions and share about the <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/09/sharing-about-teamseagrass-experience.html">Seagrass Experience</a>!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJs57DMHY8sYJsrdZj6RB668PtzyU9urJtCaqZtlQoVaYdnDknP8Ql3vUqZSf-ToFV0ZgzeOEUcTDl1CqEMIVWyXViU71oSX3qabsPlzJXb8dIAbkh78jHD7ZM2xP5tVs91A4NYPhtDRs-/s1600-h/DSC_0801a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJs57DMHY8sYJsrdZj6RB668PtzyU9urJtCaqZtlQoVaYdnDknP8Ql3vUqZSf-ToFV0ZgzeOEUcTDl1CqEMIVWyXViU71oSX3qabsPlzJXb8dIAbkh78jHD7ZM2xP5tVs91A4NYPhtDRs-/s400/DSC_0801a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5250695521582668530" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Things are a little slow as there are few spring lows this time of the year. But those lows are coming up soon!</span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-221309636896581452008-09-23T09:19:00.012+08:002008-09-23T10:28:50.114+08:00Big Cleanup and other highlights of the low<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbsVsJlclxOhXtvGq4l60u_7kvCp4IMEUXSbqBzWpSdaGrxdsWneCt66Hzyg3Lf9Ef4g5RXFPHlMr4rmBjphmOp09vIjH0t8wOYJni_vL2p2Pd_b2GyWModYSOpmbtXeE_G2sglQ1uuvJ/s1600-h/DSC_0608m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhbsVsJlclxOhXtvGq4l60u_7kvCp4IMEUXSbqBzWpSdaGrxdsWneCt66Hzyg3Lf9Ef4g5RXFPHlMr4rmBjphmOp09vIjH0t8wOYJni_vL2p2Pd_b2GyWModYSOpmbtXeE_G2sglQ1uuvJ/s400/DSC_0608m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247917572954044946" border="0" /></a>The low spring tides have switched to evening at this time of the year. So instead of glorious sun rises, shore explorers can enjoy spectacular sun sets!<br /><br />As well as marvellous marine life of course. Here's some of the latest happenings over the last two weeks.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The Big Event of the month (and the year) was International Coastal Cleanup Singapore held on 20 Sep (Sat).<br /><br />The months of preparation and planning paid off with smooth gathering of data and trash by thousands of volunteers on many of our shores. On the day itself, there was instant updates on the ICCS blog, with a particularly touching story of <a href="http://coastalcleanup.wordpress.com/2008/09/21/chek-jawa-checkout/">the effort on Chek Jawa</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXEnsCvZMxAWaWUMu15Poxg5ax_ytCVNO9kK_4Irw8O4ee23ta0Xow_aiIZSUpkKmzfqeHwQc0DBOg7aC49PWBzhpEiz7ZaDOy5p6zve0xcMKSM8C8J2OfaBtkRhtHJJWuc1O0XWiTWs/s1600-h/2872260945_fbbb1bd708.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXEnsCvZMxAWaWUMu15Poxg5ax_ytCVNO9kK_4Irw8O4ee23ta0Xow_aiIZSUpkKmzfqeHwQc0DBOg7aC49PWBzhpEiz7ZaDOy5p6zve0xcMKSM8C8J2OfaBtkRhtHJJWuc1O0XWiTWs/s400/2872260945_fbbb1bd708.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249031569522556034" border="0" /></a>Despite 200 volunteers removing 2.1 tonnes of trash from Chek Jawa, it is estimated that "only 5% of the total trash load at Chek Jawa" was removed. There is much MUCH more that needs to be done for our beloved Chek Jawa, as well as our other shores. More results and photos on the <a href="http://coastalcleanup.wordpress.com/2008/09/23/photos-and-results-2008/">ICCS blog</a>.<br /><br />There was also a quick <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/397773459/sentosa-sunset-check-up.html">check up of Sentosa's last accessible natural reef</a>, much in danger from on-going and planned developments around it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSb1lZKs9KxtwkRSNvkLK_x11_2i5y99SA_s0n1jw4k7gooKvInbI-u7wiURN4rpLQOnLgo-6tbDKNs4DvYa6VYBSS7WYY67uTY6Ggkh-Z92l-OT6QA3_XtOX1S0EVT4HpFl4XnZ_v_Qd/s1600-h/DSC_0639m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSb1lZKs9KxtwkRSNvkLK_x11_2i5y99SA_s0n1jw4k7gooKvInbI-u7wiURN4rpLQOnLgo-6tbDKNs4DvYa6VYBSS7WYY67uTY6Ggkh-Z92l-OT6QA3_XtOX1S0EVT4HpFl4XnZ_v_Qd/s400/DSC_0639m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247917737716115970" border="0" /></a>The shore was not at its best, but still revealed marvels such as this less frequently encountered cowrie. The delightful Four-spot cowrie (<span style="font-style: italic;">Cypraea quadrimaculata</span>) is listed among the threatened animals of Singapore.<br /><br />Crinoid experts and a small team of volunteers visited the reefs at Pulau Hantu. Crinoids, or feather stars, are beautiful animals with long feathery arms. They are not very commonly seen on our intertidal so it was fortunate that <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/398575606/crinoids-at-hantu.html">several were seen during the trip</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAuXNGUxo35o3ek7KLe9Yyl4vobHalDzq3Bdx0NCjEAsM-ugod0ExrOKD6oj8UCsGB7m1c-e7dr7vSb8GC1S-ptONHiTRy0VmIof63u9qqCePm5DD6eEOmh9mVaLk_bA2Xz1bOu-TBemk/s1600-h/DSC_0727m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAuXNGUxo35o3ek7KLe9Yyl4vobHalDzq3Bdx0NCjEAsM-ugod0ExrOKD6oj8UCsGB7m1c-e7dr7vSb8GC1S-ptONHiTRy0VmIof63u9qqCePm5DD6eEOmh9mVaLk_bA2Xz1bOu-TBemk/s400/DSC_0727m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248276150095500274" border="0" /></a>Of course, along the way, <a href="http://naturescouter.blogspot.com/2008/09/crinoid-hunt-at-hantu.html">many other marvellous reef creatures were encountered</a>, including lots of flatworms, nudibranchs, hard corals and everyone's favourite: Clown anemonefishes.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9veSIbIUHH_2f7ZlV9CQKJvEIZx3UDZxdadtz_Lfze2nUV3Gf5wRwf9E2qJsITmCOqRq0eoPWQVczSUOIIhfBpnsRsmadyPU4FiN6kbmPrAFus0MJKI08gqAqkQPhU3uY-wNYUKGerg/s1600-h/2877755792_439566a5b4_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9veSIbIUHH_2f7ZlV9CQKJvEIZx3UDZxdadtz_Lfze2nUV3Gf5wRwf9E2qJsITmCOqRq0eoPWQVczSUOIIhfBpnsRsmadyPU4FiN6kbmPrAFus0MJKI08gqAqkQPhU3uY-wNYUKGerg/s400/2877755792_439566a5b4_o.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5249029763244672626" border="0" /></a>Many outreach and other efforts continue during the last two weeks. Schering Plough volunteers were out once again to monitor the <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/394201272/tuas-with-teamseagrass-of-schering.html">seagrass fields at Tuas</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16-ftw9luN84byxkRl8up5nSyd-ob1Glo6jMYbDGyle1ph8sl0gY48n62QRh1z6XFNv2CVnZkKBU36bJqkUSnFHzzIyqD-7qPnnwWaPMqKmjJZzTfappnvDo4TrHs29hBFhT3ThtV7WRg/s1600-h/_DSC0002m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16-ftw9luN84byxkRl8up5nSyd-ob1Glo6jMYbDGyle1ph8sl0gY48n62QRh1z6XFNv2CVnZkKBU36bJqkUSnFHzzIyqD-7qPnnwWaPMqKmjJZzTfappnvDo4TrHs29hBFhT3ThtV7WRg/s400/_DSC0002m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246603108280837762" border="0" /></a>Although the tide was brief and not very low, the team got the job done and had a quick look around. Tuas shores seem to be doing alright, with several clusters of the trademark seafans that are usually found there.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBn7OEzsCSnJM1Ep1dBezJ9_5jnpZJmBED-u53D4mPfWWhecbRXKbYpRI85zJIndw_sezHJSv4txmNe7naVY4k0taJB5Uht4hByYzuc7i0tl-zSh9iIHbkQm8qPcB_zCCuMVyJCZxISOc/s1600-h/DSC_0482m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVBn7OEzsCSnJM1Ep1dBezJ9_5jnpZJmBED-u53D4mPfWWhecbRXKbYpRI85zJIndw_sezHJSv4txmNe7naVY4k0taJB5Uht4hByYzuc7i0tl-zSh9iIHbkQm8qPcB_zCCuMVyJCZxISOc/s400/DSC_0482m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246603349866199186" border="0" /></a></span>Meanwhile, Siti went all the way <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/09/international-seagrass-biology-workshop.html">to Canada to share about Singapore seagrass meadows</a> at an international seagrass conference.<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other field trips</span> include<br /><ul><li><a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/09/discovery-changi-beach-on-20-sep-2008.html">Changi field trip</a> to explore the marine life there.<br /></li><li><a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/09/semakau-inter-tidal-walk.html">Semakau intertidal walk</a> introducing the rich biodiversity there.</li><li><a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/09/pandan-mangrove-field-trip.html">Pandan mangrove field trip</a> for marine biology students.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other updates</span> on our reefs and marine life<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/sisters-laut-coral-cover-19-jul-08/">Big Sisters reef survey results</a> on the Blue Water Volunteers blog</li><li>New records of snails from East Coast Park! <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/393271518/new-record-of-sea-fan-snails-from-east.html">Snails that live on sea fans</a> and <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/396013266/more-new-records-of-snails-from-east.html">other kinds of snails</a>.</li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/394972189/six-new-nerite-records-for-singapore.html">Six new Nerite snail records</a> for Singapore.<br /></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Other shore issues</span> discussed recently<br /><ul><li>Singapore and rising sea levels: <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/394805678/singapore-and-rising-sea-levels_17.html">parliamentary discussion</a> and what will happen to Singapore with a 7m sea level rise? on the <a href="http://ouredenblue.blogspot.com/2008/09/it-will-never-affect-us.html">blooooooooo blog</a> and <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/09/singapore-at-7-metre-sea-level-rise.html">wild shores of singapore blog</a>.</li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/397819768/is-singapore-immune-from-tsunamis-and.html">Is Singapore immune from tsunamis and earthquakes?</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/395126105/toxic-marine-paint-and-singapore-snails.html">Toxic marine paints and Singapore snails</a> </li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Updates on on-going works on our shores</span><br /><ul><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/383204360/slope-protection-works-at-st-johns.html">Landslide protection works</a> on St. John's and Kusu Island </li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/387678244/another-oil-rig-off-pulau-semakau-mpa.html">One more oil rig</a> to be parked for works off Pulau Semakau</li><li>Update on <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/387706048/update-on-massive-dredging-off-cyrene.html">massive dredging off Cyrene Reef</a> and <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/389798981/more-reclamation-near-cyrene-reefs.html">more reclamation nearby</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/389710735/sand-mining-at-changi-east.html">Sand mining off Changi</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/389743717/reclamation-at-tuas.html">Reclamation at Tuas</a></li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/384045739/water-quality-at-pasir-ris-discussed-in.html">Water quality at Pasir Ris</a> full text of issue raised in parliament</li><li><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/384646098/new-sentosa-shore-attractions-in-2009.html">New Sentosa attractions in 2009</a> an announcement by Sentosa's new CEO</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Upcoming events</span><br /><ul><li>27 Sep (Sat): <a href="http://iyor08singapore.blogspot.com/2008/08/upcoming-teamseagrass-orientation-27.html">TeamSeagrass Orientation</a></li><li>28 Sep (Sun): <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/">Free Chek Jawa boardwalk tour</a> with the Naked Hermit Crabs<br /></li><li>28 Sep (Sun): <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/">Dive Pulau Hantu</a> with the Hantu Bloggers</li><li>28 Sep (Sun): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/09/28-sep-sun-painting-with-pui-san-at.html">Painting with Pui San</a> at Sungei Buloh</li><li>28 Sep (Sun): <a href="http://www.nss.org.sg/activities/080928a.htm">Birdwatching at Pulau Semakau</a> with the Nature Society (Singapore)</li><li>1 Oct (Wed): <a href="http://rmbr.nus.edu.sg/workshop/semakau_workshop/semakau_workshop.html#semakau_booking">Intertidal walk at Pulau Semakau</a> with RMBR</li><li>4 Oct (Sat): <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/2008/09/4-oct-sat-secret-shores-of-singapore.html">"Secret Shores of Singapore"</a> a talk at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve</li><li>until 4 Oct: <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/09/wildsingapore-posters-at-sungei-buloh.html">wild shores poster exhibition</a> at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve</li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-85296998838031372582008-09-01T14:00:00.001+08:002008-09-01T14:30:02.248+08:00Big Stars and other highlights of the low tide<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNb0OCRgaGLyL3cK2vgdbYk8l9gnX2t-4O46oHC6Cp-KA1aw21uX1UrbQ2VWdig_uK6FLHKi-v5Zl36SuNZxAH89ARYCTeroFMOhKpdLHnLycR0pBHRmEuYnehPdh3ON3Uk9R1KspOJCLu/s1600-h/DSC_0345m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 178px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNb0OCRgaGLyL3cK2vgdbYk8l9gnX2t-4O46oHC6Cp-KA1aw21uX1UrbQ2VWdig_uK6FLHKi-v5Zl36SuNZxAH89ARYCTeroFMOhKpdLHnLycR0pBHRmEuYnehPdh3ON3Uk9R1KspOJCLu/s400/DSC_0345m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240643398993909250" border="0" /></a></span>Explorers had a quick look at our shores during the last of the pre-dawn low tides for the year. Among the amazing encounters were Very Large Stars and stunning sunrises.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Although Changi is often dismissed as a reclaimed shore, it remains very much alive with intriguing finds on almost every trip.<br /><br />Besides the usual stunning variety of beautiful sea stars that is commonly seen there, <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/08/starry-morning-at-changi.html">a strange anemone</a> was also encountered.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92itmGGZpiCdHMRUTWlMhTXLZNMhuhJss765SCKqwvkwKcEZL6FTW8WLFoeQHdOnDshiS-NzT3A_YfY34kSu79D5qju7Hc5L4KUlwKSS5q1F6zN315HBI6ARKCWUx-0pfvCmEym3RiPY/s1600-h/CCP28303973.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi92itmGGZpiCdHMRUTWlMhTXLZNMhuhJss765SCKqwvkwKcEZL6FTW8WLFoeQHdOnDshiS-NzT3A_YfY34kSu79D5qju7Hc5L4KUlwKSS5q1F6zN315HBI6ARKCWUx-0pfvCmEym3RiPY/s400/CCP28303973.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240929190325975890" border="0" /></a>Most astounding was the encounter with <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/singapores-largest-sea-star.html">Very Large Stars</a>. Unfortunately, they were dead and disintegrating, although smaller living individuals of these Luidia sea stars were seen on previous trips.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhJD9ScAS38fwRlwAFU3szoayKJNYONFETnwybcZtAlRhPyn6V0Uv_6kc3pUBkPkrb8K4UYJ3vDuPTrfVq6rIylsLvdAbngJZES3zBFxpNHVyrdcM4DsRvJKOF9FrD6h0R9o4NLIkrEk/s1600-h/changi310808p16.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhJD9ScAS38fwRlwAFU3szoayKJNYONFETnwybcZtAlRhPyn6V0Uv_6kc3pUBkPkrb8K4UYJ3vDuPTrfVq6rIylsLvdAbngJZES3zBFxpNHVyrdcM4DsRvJKOF9FrD6h0R9o4NLIkrEk/s400/changi310808p16.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240929186613979842" border="0" /></a>Where do these large stars hang out when they are alive? Why were so many dead ones encountered? There is indeed so much yet to find out about our shores.<br /><br />Meanwhile, <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/378789098/kusu-quickly-with-snappy-encounters.html">a quick trip to Kusu Island</a> resulted in an encounter with a pretty shrimp goby and its associate, the snapping shrimp. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-OkIFE5DK58hjwZ3f2GTyyoOiUG4w4XEedqZEC6Snp7JCWSu8y4BhwWn9qzXWOi6C_t4jMxmxoK-ML110Ve5qiH9495PDQzV152csCIP8TZ1G4JO9vqyMLBD0DLB1Wy7vrt8IAOP05ZB/s1600-h/DSC_9939m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-OkIFE5DK58hjwZ3f2GTyyoOiUG4w4XEedqZEC6Snp7JCWSu8y4BhwWn9qzXWOi6C_t4jMxmxoK-ML110Ve5qiH9495PDQzV152csCIP8TZ1G4JO9vqyMLBD0DLB1Wy7vrt8IAOP05ZB/s400/DSC_9939m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240211474869659474" border="0" /></a>This odd couple share a burrow, with the keen eyed fish keeping a look out, while the more short-sighted but well armoured shrimp tidies up their hideout. Other sightings on this shore included loads of mating sea stars.<br /><span class="fullpost"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglu38TGyfIQp7_cRfUDPjpY-PwPz6UewSRFlaJ3Topvk4fiDWOfseIp3WxWbp8j6Hu6_7PWjnC71aYzPtKdxWtN_tCRNRl5DkmKWkJSfCVi2jmgpAh8FDsKrINhEOR0pp9WBXsScPBi89A/s1600-h/DSC_0109m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglu38TGyfIQp7_cRfUDPjpY-PwPz6UewSRFlaJ3Topvk4fiDWOfseIp3WxWbp8j6Hu6_7PWjnC71aYzPtKdxWtN_tCRNRl5DkmKWkJSfCVi2jmgpAh8FDsKrINhEOR0pp9WBXsScPBi89A/s400/DSC_0109m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240211120611338546" border="0" /></a></span>As well as beautiful corals and clown anemonefishes.<br /><span class="fullpost"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8IoNvnwq4LJQmguTZ4cOup42UgpfUi-x5BZ8mdu159jdD45_dFcm8kaXUzZxZi68XL5aLHvR2WdMx6ot_ABVt9IUU8rp2iEX6bTZOG2JJH5axmmVrWB-q0Ste8L9LklHr8N8DJMS8SRxX/s1600-h/DSC_0150m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8IoNvnwq4LJQmguTZ4cOup42UgpfUi-x5BZ8mdu159jdD45_dFcm8kaXUzZxZi68XL5aLHvR2WdMx6ot_ABVt9IUU8rp2iEX6bTZOG2JJH5axmmVrWB-q0Ste8L9LklHr8N8DJMS8SRxX/s400/DSC_0150m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240211466490266898" border="0" /></a></span>And of course, a beautiful sunrise. Kusu Island lies just 15 minutes away from the city centre! City Reefs: uniquely Singapore!<br /><br />Another quick trip to the smaller of the Sisters Islands rewards with <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/379636245/big-sunrise-on-little-sisters.html">views of rich living reefs</a>, crowded with lifeforms.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PMPQN9M5UFi0H8Ktg7ep2OpcnYDEnCzxplpI8-O5Os-LVLNMj4MKQV0qiDpKPeZyzGZJJ-wcPS9ZSV8eK2g_CGezbEJDt9pzpZ08gm-uhz74Xni-vlUaGPQ-F6jJTKkNXwoqt170Wqbs/s1600-h/DSC_0254m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PMPQN9M5UFi0H8Ktg7ep2OpcnYDEnCzxplpI8-O5Os-LVLNMj4MKQV0qiDpKPeZyzGZJJ-wcPS9ZSV8eK2g_CGezbEJDt9pzpZ08gm-uhz74Xni-vlUaGPQ-F6jJTKkNXwoqt170Wqbs/s400/DSC_0254m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240642862204530338" border="0" /></a>Among the sightings there were a giant clam, special anemone and this very large bright red feather star, <a href="http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=61899&id=598910900&ref=mf">shared on facebook</a>.<span class="fullpost"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeBM_3p6Q5su1-lbk6HpbDqhZtOMcgZ0Ny5QRGRGB9v04bXqZbEEqPZzk4Y_IfZNTdLJ5c5u2GaZB6Afzluzn2MU0UHHhkCIf5cQoASXTRn512urNUImJuHxJ8WOi8xETf-4XlY4ZgfAZ/s1600-h/n598910900_1717156_6722.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJeBM_3p6Q5su1-lbk6HpbDqhZtOMcgZ0Ny5QRGRGB9v04bXqZbEEqPZzk4Y_IfZNTdLJ5c5u2GaZB6Afzluzn2MU0UHHhkCIf5cQoASXTRn512urNUImJuHxJ8WOi8xETf-4XlY4ZgfAZ/s400/n598910900_1717156_6722.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240657410751928690" border="0" /></a></span><br />The Hantu Bloggers also made their monthly foray beneath the waves at our <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/blog-log-31-aug-2008/">wild reefs at Pulau Hantu</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtoiv0TF4Wpby6K-Ql8ivGJhxSvBRai-02zgDlHxarfZ8c8NEGS0AtO05GRsGa8ehuNq-cyey6iN7g4HWPhPtB6HmxdblXtv7YuTp8jclTAJVK2gtwChtYmyl-g_hB7Fjj9wBNC-zZg8/s1600-h/2813794442_01803d34f0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRtoiv0TF4Wpby6K-Ql8ivGJhxSvBRai-02zgDlHxarfZ8c8NEGS0AtO05GRsGa8ehuNq-cyey6iN7g4HWPhPtB6HmxdblXtv7YuTp8jclTAJVK2gtwChtYmyl-g_hB7Fjj9wBNC-zZg8/s400/2813794442_01803d34f0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240929179935825538" border="0" /></a>And the reefs there are most definitely alive! There were sightings of seahorses, fishes galore. Alas, also <a href="http://dolphymanta.multiply.com/photos/album/98/Hantu_Bloggers_Dive_310808">some abandoned fishing lines</a>, which were duly removed.<br /><br />It was also <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/08/after-4-months-absence.html">a NUDIful day</a> for nudibranch diehards. With sightings of new nudis as well as lots of the more familiar of these colourful slugs.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tHb0emJrhhgluBgIDibdgta6aEt2aiguADZiFECYM6lgAMbTL7QRUMKRmaTczlojVzw49_Bg38i0wg5lB1A0TmM5O9p6TJPY0k7YOg0kfcFI81njMCvcJfu7i5eddo0hOpUEj5ZDITA/s1600-h/IMG_0525.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_tHb0emJrhhgluBgIDibdgta6aEt2aiguADZiFECYM6lgAMbTL7QRUMKRmaTczlojVzw49_Bg38i0wg5lB1A0TmM5O9p6TJPY0k7YOg0kfcFI81njMCvcJfu7i5eddo0hOpUEj5ZDITA/s400/IMG_0525.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240929186248604514" border="0" /></a>The Hantu dive resulted in <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/the-groupers-cousin/">a sighting of a special fish</a> that merited a record at the Raffles Museum!<br /><br />Other shore activities this week includes the free guided walk at the Chek Jawa boardwalk by the <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/">Naked Hermit Crabs</a>.<br /><br />More blog entries about recent trips to our shores<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/changi">Changi</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/kusu">Kusu Island</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/hantu">Pulau Hantu</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sisters">Sisters Island</a><br /></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-31119626413668050192008-08-20T10:38:00.009+08:002008-08-20T16:29:34.342+08:00Strange moon and other marvels: highlights of the lows<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6ssUydgcQ6hBk4TNQW-6oYAvUHniGCOVmhFoasnmA3-9-WK13jdG29bdOs3LwK9WuvxMWYM71jPv497A1FFe2cxhLiMeqCd3DCyc8hh4E7BjX8GqBwYXQAtpjbpDblcrIuKS5ge2yDC5/s1600-h/DSC_9728m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 228px; height: 167px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6ssUydgcQ6hBk4TNQW-6oYAvUHniGCOVmhFoasnmA3-9-WK13jdG29bdOs3LwK9WuvxMWYM71jPv497A1FFe2cxhLiMeqCd3DCyc8hh4E7BjX8GqBwYXQAtpjbpDblcrIuKS5ge2yDC5/s400/DSC_9728m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235305173838200898" border="0" /></a>During the recent series of low tide trips, explorers not only saw more marine marvels, but also a lunar eclipse!<br /><br />What's MORE adorable than a Nemo? What's happening on Cyrene Reef?<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The lunar eclipse was quite <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/%7Er/WildShoresOfSingapore/%7E3/366970225/changi-at-under-strange-moon.html">an interesting phenomenon</a> for shore explorers out that night. Although the tide at Changi was not as low as expected, there were still interesting finds including <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/changi-shore-with-lunar-eclipse.html">a dead shark</a>.<br /><br />What could be more squeal inducing than a 'Nemo'? Really tiny baby Nemos! False clown anemonefishes (<span style="font-style: italic;">Amphiprion ocellaris</span>) are quite regularly seen in our sea anemones, and of course, they must surely have babies! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvG6YLte3hgpUPHptvuAeR_sRKhe1JEO2yQkQWSAjfa0wW1UmzDwKnrqNjIe83qeH5AtbHmvAwa-FRnSlpDbc6uGosX-yOHV_zAwNebCbT2gvmQ1pZ1ecBwlRAnAbREcJs6fycAYCwMg/s1600-h/2767263795_697d8b083c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvG6YLte3hgpUPHptvuAeR_sRKhe1JEO2yQkQWSAjfa0wW1UmzDwKnrqNjIe83qeH5AtbHmvAwa-FRnSlpDbc6uGosX-yOHV_zAwNebCbT2gvmQ1pZ1ecBwlRAnAbREcJs6fycAYCwMg/s400/2767263795_697d8b083c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236504194470904226" border="0" /></a> Marcus shares this photo and story of the babies on his<a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/08/new-nemos.html"> budak blog</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjPt6xza0gnZSUot_W_Hcyy-IGjnHFiiPP7JgbeCi-LFAGEygP7YPthyNPPxEeaY_1-JB6n4_pPwz06tYbDGZfxQ-XyGxSXF0AVKuUV8EooMwgoUfezkJOcEXuxxhDz13zQHrVzyDzsD7k/s1600-h/DSC_9549m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjPt6xza0gnZSUot_W_Hcyy-IGjnHFiiPP7JgbeCi-LFAGEygP7YPthyNPPxEeaY_1-JB6n4_pPwz06tYbDGZfxQ-XyGxSXF0AVKuUV8EooMwgoUfezkJOcEXuxxhDz13zQHrVzyDzsD7k/s400/DSC_9549m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235009933881252178" border="0" /></a>This same trip to the Sisters Islands also involved encounters with <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/08/living-reefs-of-sisters-island.html">strange fishes</a>, <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/08/mushroom-madness-on-sisters-island.html">masses of mushrooms</a> and <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/08/hermit-crabs-pinch.html">pinching hermit crabs</a>.<br /><br />The last trip to Cyrene at sunrise for the year included lots of first timers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnl9krFqzAYspOLwZ-zhK2O7zBnQtrtu41idXJU5RkZoD1c5mbCeiC5udmtvYmO5B_WrmHtFD7S14HVrz0RVuXKN7GIUfChk-n3j_s0kZOnxrfJK3WMcbDSlGAC34maXaMqmygsIsXsCqE/s1600-h/DSC_9877m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnl9krFqzAYspOLwZ-zhK2O7zBnQtrtu41idXJU5RkZoD1c5mbCeiC5udmtvYmO5B_WrmHtFD7S14HVrz0RVuXKN7GIUfChk-n3j_s0kZOnxrfJK3WMcbDSlGAC34maXaMqmygsIsXsCqE/s400/DSC_9877m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236174571550957906" border="0" /></a>They had <a href="http://canyouseame.blogspot.com/2008/08/magical-journey-to-cyrene.html">a quick look</a> at the wonderful reefs and shores there, despite the ominous weather.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gEftqpTR72mf4PFEiXuhOlJdxs-ErYsZVGFMTWv-pEBhQSgFu776Rj0zv8dmAIttTsFyeDCAC0G_JpWMyOzCAFPW_zNwNklUm9Oa9pyEGU-meRkhtKTLgFY6-z7j-VZg_gvcY7zXeok5/s1600-h/DSC_9854m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gEftqpTR72mf4PFEiXuhOlJdxs-ErYsZVGFMTWv-pEBhQSgFu776Rj0zv8dmAIttTsFyeDCAC0G_JpWMyOzCAFPW_zNwNklUm9Oa9pyEGU-meRkhtKTLgFY6-z7j-VZg_gvcY7zXeok5/s400/DSC_9854m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236174381089516066" border="0" /></a>While the Star Trackers continued to work hard to monitor the magnificent Knobbly sea stars on Cyrene. <a href="http://wildshores.blogspot.com/2008/08/cyrene-reef-last-sunrise-trip.html">Dredging is now ongoing next to Cyrene Reefs</a>, as well as reclamation works nearby at Pasir Panjang Port.<br /><br />Meanwhile, Kok Sheng encounters a <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/there-is-life-at-pasir-ris-beach.html">star-studded shore at Pasir Ris</a>. Although NEA has closed this shore to swimming due to poor water quality. There were sea stars small and big as well as lots of other marine life.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OsmAL6CPJh4oFhHgZ5kUoLDH5rbQgrKnvcTjUxsK6lpDXCRB4SU6duBD-RDcfaPF8IHHK7_LNjkcN8dooP0h3E5wHop3g7QJx6fbw2fymQz_lsTUDzXHCVl7LYXRRqBKMwe0iICOqRY/s1600-h/pasriris190808p02.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0OsmAL6CPJh4oFhHgZ5kUoLDH5rbQgrKnvcTjUxsK6lpDXCRB4SU6duBD-RDcfaPF8IHHK7_LNjkcN8dooP0h3E5wHop3g7QJx6fbw2fymQz_lsTUDzXHCVl7LYXRRqBKMwe0iICOqRY/s400/pasriris190808p02.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236504194381872770" border="0" /></a><a href="http://wildsingaporenews.blogspot.com/2008/08/crocodile-spotted-at-pasir-ris-beach.html">The crocodile at Pasir Ris</a> that has been in the news in the past week or so.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwawC7yR59iGWxBqWrmkAs4XT6JHu1F-x7mImBZQkuKXO4Yd3bLgKzFWXw66_U4g8lWKl-7q6butSWa1duLp0pQ1sHWXAIsFgxg9AJd0riaXJhC9S_onWtLwRD2i00bSgPiySf9wApiIo/s1600-h/NP_IMAGES_DNCROC.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwawC7yR59iGWxBqWrmkAs4XT6JHu1F-x7mImBZQkuKXO4Yd3bLgKzFWXw66_U4g8lWKl-7q6butSWa1duLp0pQ1sHWXAIsFgxg9AJd0riaXJhC9S_onWtLwRD2i00bSgPiySf9wApiIo/s400/NP_IMAGES_DNCROC.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236504200249725282" border="0" /></a>seemed to have been <a href="http://wildsingaporenews.blogspot.com/2008/08/pasir-ris-crocodile-caught-on-fishing.html">caught today</a>.<br /><br />More blog entries about trips to our shores during the last two weeks<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/changi">Changi</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/cyrene">Cyrene Reefs</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/pasir%20ris">Pasir Ris Park</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/semakau">Pulau Semakau</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sisters">Sisters Island</a><br /></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-14334792480903585332008-08-09T08:00:00.000+08:002008-08-08T21:49:23.508+08:00Red-and-white marine life<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3201/2674617526_95a5863ee8_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 188px; height: 188px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3201/2674617526_95a5863ee8_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>In celebration of our National Day, let's feature some of our favourite marine life which sport our national colours!<br /><br />Here are five red-and-white marine creatures that are special to Singaporeans and to our planet!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The False Clown Anemonefish: </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Singapore's own 'Nemo'</span><br /><br />Made famous by the cartoon "Finding Nemo", clown anemonefishes may still be seen among the sea anemones of our Southern shores.<br /><br />Besides being really cute and colourful, the most amazing feature of anemonefishes is that they can live happily among the tentacles of sea anemones that would otherwise kill (and eat) other fishes, including larger ones.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/154/422634644_f57ae9a84f_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/154/422634644_f57ae9a84f_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Experiments suggest anemonefishes may protect their host anemones from predatory fishes such as butterflyfishes. They may also clean the anemone of parasites and remove dead tissues of the sea anemone. Their swimming action may also increase water circulation around the sea anemone and remove sediments that would foul the sea anemone. Some studies suggest anemonefishes attract other fishes that are captured and eaten by the sea anemone.<br /><br />Our clown anemonefish (<span style="font-style: italic;">Amphiprion ocellaris</span>) is called the False Clown anemonefish, to distinguish it from another closely related fish called the Clown anemonefish (<span style="font-style: italic;">Amphiprion percula</span>) which lacks the black bands on the top edge of the dorsal fin. 'Nemo' of the film fame is <span style="font-style: italic;">A. percula</span>. The natural distribution of these two species of anemonefishes do NOT overlap.<br /><br />Unfortunately, our False clown anemonefish is listed among Singapore's threatened animals. Globally, anemonefishes are taken in large numbers from the wild for the aquarium trade. The harvest may involve the use of cyanide or blasting, which damage the habitat and kill many other creatures. There have been some success in breeding anemonefish for the aquarium trade. Although captive bred anemonefish are hardier, they are more expensive. Harvesting from the wild will probably continue so long as there are unscrupulous traders and aquarists.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Mosaic crab: the most poisonous crab in Singapore</span><br /><br />The stunning red-and-white Mosaic crab (<span style="font-style: italic;">Lophozozymus pictor</span>) is the most poisonous crab in Singapore!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/131/421829197_3cdb1715eb_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/131/421829197_3cdb1715eb_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Their toxins are not destroyed by heat or cooking. Eating them can cause Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning which can lead to death. There is no antidote to their toxins. While these crabs may be poisonous, they are not venomous. That is, they cannot introduce their toxins by stinging or biting. But nevertheless, it's best to leave these crabs alone. For example, those who are allergic might get a reaction by even touching these crabs.<br /><br />Unfortunately, this crab is listed among the threatened animals of Singapore.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sea apple sea cucumber: a colourful toxin bomb</span><br /><br />This amazing technicolour sea cucumber is sometimes seen on our undisturbed Northern shores. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1195/806920757_a60e07f282_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1195/806920757_a60e07f282_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The body is usuall red shading to lilac and white with five rows of yellow tube feet. The mouth is ringed with blue. During low tide, it retracts its colourful feeding tentacles. When relaxed, the normal shape is short and sausage-like as with most other sea cucumbers. When stressed, however, it may inflate itself into a large round ball.<br /><br />The Sea apple sea cucumber is listed among the threatened animals of Singapore. These beautiful sea cucumbers unfortunately are harvested for the aquarium trade. Ironically, they do not make good aquarium specimens. When distressed, the sea cucumbers may release potent toxins that kill off the entire aquarium.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Knobbly sea stars: star of our shores</span><br /><br />Knobbly sea stars (<span style="font-style: italic;">Protoreaster nodosus</span>) are not venomous, although they are often brightly coloured and covered with dangerous-looking knobs, nodules and spines. They are also called the Giant Nodulated sea star, Horned sea star or Chocolate Chip sea star.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2122/2440053941_58ba56c890_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2122/2440053941_58ba56c890_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Knobbly sea stars are harvested from the wild for the live aquarium trade, often selling for only a few dollars. In captivity, they are unlikely to survive long without expert care.<br /><br />In the past, Knobbly sea stars were among the most common large sea stars of Malaya. They are now listed among the threatened animals of Singapore. Cyrene Reef is among the few places left in Singapore where they can be seen regularly.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Seahorses: gentle fishes in danger</span><br /><br />Seahorses are still regularly encountered on our reefs and seagrass meadows. They come in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including this pinkish one among hard corals at Sisters Island.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2511248994_9864b8ef75_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3291/2511248994_9864b8ef75_o.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Seahorses are true fish, although they don't appear very fish-like! Each seahorse is enclosed in an armour of bony rings just under the skin. It also has an internal skeleton just like other fish. With reduced fins and rather inflexible bodies, a seahorse cannot swim quickly. Instead, it relies on camouflage to blend in with the vegetation. The seahorse has a prehensile tail (can be curled around a firm object).<br /><br />In seahorses, the male carries the eggs inside a pouch. The female have an ovipositor to lay eggs into the pouch, where the eggs are then fertilised. The father 'gives birth' to live young, which emerge as miniatures of the adults.<br /><br />Our seahorses are listed among the threatened animals in Singapore. Globally, seahorses and pipefishes are considered threatened. Seahorses as well as pipefishes are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Some species are also caught for the live aquarium trade. They are naturally uncommon because they reproduce slowly and usually seldom travel far from one spot. Usually, in the wild only a handful of babies survive from each batch of eggs. Being slow swimmers without a free-swimming larval stage, they don’t spread quickly to new places. Being slow-moving and defenceless, they are easily collected.<br /><br />Singapore still has amazing marine life! It is up to us to make a difference for them. Here's more on how <a href="http://iyor08singapore.blogspot.com/2007/11/you-can-make-difference-for-our-reefs_10.html">you CAN make a difference</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-86819691279290198102008-08-07T10:00:00.002+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.222+08:00Our stunning living reefs and outreach efforts for them<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSJ4qI6DIOUJ_5jbT_zo40xrUdtoBVjbKw5DNEZ6OtYGoKFCisScS6_SSzRTeXxIGszLOgWHfvbCBxDvMhr4DhtkrV9yyVbdkiE0a-_MWiPKjCJ10txetfQc-LGAdCNx34S_nZb6yf5ZE/s1600-h/DSC_8890m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 178px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSJ4qI6DIOUJ_5jbT_zo40xrUdtoBVjbKw5DNEZ6OtYGoKFCisScS6_SSzRTeXxIGszLOgWHfvbCBxDvMhr4DhtkrV9yyVbdkiE0a-_MWiPKjCJ10txetfQc-LGAdCNx34S_nZb6yf5ZE/s400/DSC_8890m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229826397607000130" border="0"></a>This past two weeks, some of our spectacular reefs were visited.<br /><br />Many of our reefs are just minutes from the city centre!<br /><br />Here's some glimpses of our rich wild reefs over the last two weeks.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />We have lots of wild reefs and Pulau Hantu is a favourite among local divers. The Hantu Bloggers conduct regular dives there and had a <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/blog-later-see-this-first/">fantastic dive</a> on 27 Jul.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS-CdS_zml2uQHAtCi7DUvh8VP7Cdfs_2PgQWjc59NPUB0og_bbxsOMSvhiYi9hmuV7ZxRFHSmYb02xl8xBOSvj6DGigVpIioOZYv_zZ8OvpNO8kFnNlhz0Nk9VEnR7cd0LhL2GoJLiU/s1600-h/2706997132_eb8bc92a1c.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRS-CdS_zml2uQHAtCi7DUvh8VP7Cdfs_2PgQWjc59NPUB0og_bbxsOMSvhiYi9hmuV7ZxRFHSmYb02xl8xBOSvj6DGigVpIioOZYv_zZ8OvpNO8kFnNlhz0Nk9VEnR7cd0LhL2GoJLiU/s400/2706997132_eb8bc92a1c.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230570529679900722" border="0"></a>With an amazing range of marinelife sighted on this local haunt for divers.<br /><br />There were also intertidal visits to some of our spectacular reefs.<br /><br />At <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/08/living-reefs-of-st-johns-island.html">St. John's Island</a> a variety of hard corals were seen including this rarely encountered <font style="font-style: italic;">Pacheris </font>sp.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2Z6n1B3NC2alwKHct3q4Kki4I6Gtu4QINoZ7jOubNwj_r5MsCTUjdgy-YdxxoaiqhuXpYxyyG1ACmpEfr5_xWSavWjmL2FhG0eNXmAjVb-oswEMS19WBdnczTqmolDTTzri1WoTqNe0/s1600-h/coral11.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim2Z6n1B3NC2alwKHct3q4Kki4I6Gtu4QINoZ7jOubNwj_r5MsCTUjdgy-YdxxoaiqhuXpYxyyG1ACmpEfr5_xWSavWjmL2FhG0eNXmAjVb-oswEMS19WBdnczTqmolDTTzri1WoTqNe0/s400/coral11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230573325411545090" border="0"></a>The reefs there sheltered <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/08/fishes-and-more-at-st-johns-island.html">fishes of all kinds</a>, including lots of small Blue-spotted fantail rays (<font style="font-style: italic;">Taeniura lymma</font>).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcdH1e1YuIhByMTMQ7zplHZbR7oqKQIuTHUTnqCuUhZO00DU50ZzaMhEazWqn2MZZBOYRfXvRftrSeZsWbpxr5Zanw0XaH_pxpEJCznTFDz6_rxFp6uKZ_PVypk6bcEyjPGd5bPeGaLZs/s1600-h/DSC_8804m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcdH1e1YuIhByMTMQ7zplHZbR7oqKQIuTHUTnqCuUhZO00DU50ZzaMhEazWqn2MZZBOYRfXvRftrSeZsWbpxr5Zanw0XaH_pxpEJCznTFDz6_rxFp6uKZ_PVypk6bcEyjPGd5bPeGaLZs/s400/DSC_8804m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230573328477234978" border="0"></a><a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/08/semakau-3-aug-08.html">TeamSeagrass was at Pulau Semakau</a>, another spectacular reef with special hard corals.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwHjkzN8QtCYl90fmBAML46GPXjhjSPZujesT3kPdnHNhksRydDJqadbT5T5FvuMZ_L3vSEeJi3fkO14UA-JO10-UzNDQcWRtd5HR69utZ2-X3o186a3VnYdKJvZdtwNnzmcDxPpmLRI/s1600-h/coral6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwHjkzN8QtCYl90fmBAML46GPXjhjSPZujesT3kPdnHNhksRydDJqadbT5T5FvuMZ_L3vSEeJi3fkO14UA-JO10-UzNDQcWRtd5HR69utZ2-X3o186a3VnYdKJvZdtwNnzmcDxPpmLRI/s400/coral6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230268480878370258" border="0"></a>Some hard corals seen include the rare <font style="font-style: italic;">Echinopora </font>sp. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibS1jP8EGGHXK4R9MXhuZ__jFA2NFvaJLSLEyMt3KbtPl5uSaZA2Ykrzyx4Sqd5Icnt25M6IGbgO4gdhQrEJDYRsxsQZMRrkTlHkfIZond29tTkze71GgvV7DS9KnQL3bPDvPbhb8_RpY/s1600-h/coral3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibS1jP8EGGHXK4R9MXhuZ__jFA2NFvaJLSLEyMt3KbtPl5uSaZA2Ykrzyx4Sqd5Icnt25M6IGbgO4gdhQrEJDYRsxsQZMRrkTlHkfIZond29tTkze71GgvV7DS9KnQL3bPDvPbhb8_RpY/s400/coral3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230267981029795586" border="0"></a>And beautiful Moon coral (<font style="font-style: italic;">Diploastrea heliopora</font>).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlZNzDYANqqf81MuMHroeAtrpbwCzHNBpNfDooZWDXHsSdZRW1D2X14VDL_YToE3i70M1NHn4aEg_cYIC9IHrwwxAO5XiiBvcR8prO-ZGjwOG5T-B2R8HB03iuxVvNp15_RoLREq3KXM/s1600-h/DSC_9077m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNlZNzDYANqqf81MuMHroeAtrpbwCzHNBpNfDooZWDXHsSdZRW1D2X14VDL_YToE3i70M1NHn4aEg_cYIC9IHrwwxAO5XiiBvcR8prO-ZGjwOG5T-B2R8HB03iuxVvNp15_RoLREq3KXM/s400/DSC_9077m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230269716524150546" border="0"></a>Among these reefs were <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/08/semakau-with-teamseagrass.html">delightful fishes</a> such as this juvenile Batfish.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPiJCSE_-lWnUiNyqfIXPvQ6BlR7Dpbp8cSHfTd6WILxa5elsiVx_pLHmZcYfFMhZmQkBgGAY-WBPHrrrZ5ggfur3MkcsBdT-8FV1ljt-1F0TRDHhrTKZUxrBP3O5CE858D80UZPYRd-w/s1600-h/DSC_9131m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPiJCSE_-lWnUiNyqfIXPvQ6BlR7Dpbp8cSHfTd6WILxa5elsiVx_pLHmZcYfFMhZmQkBgGAY-WBPHrrrZ5ggfur3MkcsBdT-8FV1ljt-1F0TRDHhrTKZUxrBP3O5CE858D80UZPYRd-w/s400/DSC_9131m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230270338548307282" border="0"></a>And the fabulous Tomato anemonefish (<font style="font-style: italic;">Amphiprion fernatus</font>) in its host, the Bulb-tentacled anemone (<font style="font-style: italic;">Entacmea quadricolor</font>).<br /><br />At Raffles Lighthouse, our most pristine reefs seem to be doing well.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFwAeftKPvSWHhyphenhyphenhoqRZff5urbomKzu0dSMvX9u2w5OkSkPfrG5ZtafQnNrNDMtU7q3pubyoTQfdlDkIznWsBxm0fNVJ4iPW14j5CjSxVk8THnkA8SS19D6DoEEQkFgRKLjx1BdRRXhA/s1600-h/rl020808p01.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFwAeftKPvSWHhyphenhyphenhoqRZff5urbomKzu0dSMvX9u2w5OkSkPfrG5ZtafQnNrNDMtU7q3pubyoTQfdlDkIznWsBxm0fNVJ4iPW14j5CjSxVk8THnkA8SS19D6DoEEQkFgRKLjx1BdRRXhA/s400/rl020808p01.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230576191389240994" border="0"></a>With a stunning assortment of some rare corals growing in profusion; truly <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/coral-garden-at-raffles-lighthouse.html">a coral garden</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTQmxXBrCBKSiLB9pGZkYzidS2cD_RnwkjOTwltXIyvnDU7NHMuIoa1gzKXIP7fn3N0fbkV_u9xB4JVAmu2I55jKhG32Pk7sl6qnoMY8imVhWjpRo8feeFc81v-xJnWGx4lipf-HmFLQ/s1600-h/rl020808p37.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYTQmxXBrCBKSiLB9pGZkYzidS2cD_RnwkjOTwltXIyvnDU7NHMuIoa1gzKXIP7fn3N0fbkV_u9xB4JVAmu2I55jKhG32Pk7sl6qnoMY8imVhWjpRo8feeFc81v-xJnWGx4lipf-HmFLQ/s400/rl020808p37.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230940266357201634" border="0"></a>With a profusion of rarely seen corals such as Acropora hard corals.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdT-hB51mx3csjE80Wq5ZD21M1UwI0mT2LqUtir3Q2Z9qjnfvRfHwMxvBW5nJBnK977ACuXlsYOWN5zO8Krw1pNPj20GpUmGZxuNC2KadyXxb32jx6m9K0-Y4bHq_OXKOXIqt89V4F6E4/s1600-h/rl020808p05.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdT-hB51mx3csjE80Wq5ZD21M1UwI0mT2LqUtir3Q2Z9qjnfvRfHwMxvBW5nJBnK977ACuXlsYOWN5zO8Krw1pNPj20GpUmGZxuNC2KadyXxb32jx6m9K0-Y4bHq_OXKOXIqt89V4F6E4/s400/rl020808p05.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230940270488477234" border="0"></a>As well as <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/reef-animals-of-raffles-lighthouse.html">other amazing reef animals</a>.<br /><br />Outreach activities during the period include a <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/08/cyrene-reefs-4-aug-08.html">field trip with Straits Times</a> to introduce Cyrene Reef and TeamSeagrass.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjza4jiIoDMUFXlSP3ZBzBJJuq_Yq_svVWcbCV3vJYIhn-ODT3qABOrI26p88nKw7jlkZ10peQ_-SD7f-2gIu5s4IX_lEi_UrnV9ERyUzox2Rs86Itv8BojZZF7t7i3AROE0bkAQqKqq8/s1600-h/_DSC0017m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjza4jiIoDMUFXlSP3ZBzBJJuq_Yq_svVWcbCV3vJYIhn-ODT3qABOrI26p88nKw7jlkZ10peQ_-SD7f-2gIu5s4IX_lEi_UrnV9ERyUzox2Rs86Itv8BojZZF7t7i3AROE0bkAQqKqq8/s400/_DSC0017m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230622307562547794" border="0"></a>The Naked Hermit Crabs also held an <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/07/wild-boars-and-madcap-mudskippers-at.html">exciting walk on the Chek Jawa boardwalk</a> on 27 Jul with <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/07/i-can-has-bacon---------oinkaccording-to-one-of-the-rangers-max-whom-i-tweedled-and-poked-ated-a-piglet-a-week-a.html">wild boars</a> and madcap mudskippers.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV1j91TdCplEpVAibf6X5Jrdtyw2VZDSwgOssb_Bf5WE_MhH4ZqFxBScaubvGYrwgEzjHoBGDXz6nMphrF1iFeD3UwXdf1tc3l0xef_xPEGBYtXPEIu84dQSBaP4YLlJdwGhB5sBGdPYk/s1600-h/2712796384_d2f4419536.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV1j91TdCplEpVAibf6X5Jrdtyw2VZDSwgOssb_Bf5WE_MhH4ZqFxBScaubvGYrwgEzjHoBGDXz6nMphrF1iFeD3UwXdf1tc3l0xef_xPEGBYtXPEIu84dQSBaP4YLlJdwGhB5sBGdPYk/s400/2712796384_d2f4419536.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230570537726378466" border="0"></a>The walk clearly made an impression on the visitors, as indicated by their <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/07/wild-boars-and-madcap-mudskippers-at.html">guestbook entries</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusYQEqptY63t4XyMO-Z_op38qYilKs_Ld3Pdl2FV2xPbCoJwfZ0CKIayoCsLaHWBq8ER8qUDFxObHFy7I0bex5SWl6-NFCuB-4bTM0I7HdlyGo7dCL84Od34YabJZYGUPM-Xuw046zJE/s1600-h/6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgusYQEqptY63t4XyMO-Z_op38qYilKs_Ld3Pdl2FV2xPbCoJwfZ0CKIayoCsLaHWBq8ER8qUDFxObHFy7I0bex5SWl6-NFCuB-4bTM0I7HdlyGo7dCL84Od34YabJZYGUPM-Xuw046zJE/s400/6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230570530042610898" border="0"></a>Nature Society (Singapore)'s <a href="http://funwithnature.blogspot.com/2008/07/horseshoe-crabs-sloshing-on-mudflats.html">Fun with Nature</a> had kids out in the mangroves learning about horseshoe crabs and other icky mudflat creatures.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0b4Vaaw0C5dUeTbKAr5-XvyxNUavA8A8BNk1j2nAT0ZlOP0Lau7FkWE9QbAhe8fVCKaZIHpAk59u4wRh1BiQdlstX1NXgzxW1bNLURVXtN8Jb5Q5SwHts39PHUQLF06qFwESlRhef-tQ/s1600-h/Isaac,.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0b4Vaaw0C5dUeTbKAr5-XvyxNUavA8A8BNk1j2nAT0ZlOP0Lau7FkWE9QbAhe8fVCKaZIHpAk59u4wRh1BiQdlstX1NXgzxW1bNLURVXtN8Jb5Q5SwHts39PHUQLF06qFwESlRhef-tQ/s400/Isaac,.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230573333100855890" border="0"></a>The <a href="http://habitatnews.nus.edu.sg/index.php?entry=/marine/20080725-horseshoe_crab-rescue-video.txt">horseshoe crab rescue at Mandai</a> resulted in a video clip with explanations on how to release the animals efficiently without hurting them.<br /><br />To find out more about our reefs and the outreach efforts for them, come for <a href="http://iyor08singapore.blogspot.com/2008/07/9-aug-sat-reef-celebrations-launch-of.html">Reef Celebrations</a> on 9 Aug! See amazing sights, hear stories, all without getting your feet wet!<br /><br /><font class="fullpost">More blog entries about trips to our shores during the last two weeks<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/changi">Changi</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/chek-jawa">Chek Jawa</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/cyrene">Cyrene Reefs</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/ecp">East Coast Park</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/hantu">Pulau Hantu</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/semakau">Pulau Semakau</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/raffles-lighthouse">Raffles Lighthouse</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/st-john">St. John's Island</a><br /></li></ul></font></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-21912488319907263592008-08-06T09:00:00.004+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.222+08:00Stars of our shores and other low tide highlights<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7h1ncL3MR2Us605C1g0TovHJOhgRpeDvsv2oFiBJPQGUbp3YQBvEYnbABTtbI5-VPEP5O2Sj0xmmwS1bHVwlbdjm0WJgX7-5XwGTq3POIYRMJFepB0D5HvllZX5vs_2yQmWczUzGKCQ/s1600-h/DSC_8577m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 215px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7h1ncL3MR2Us605C1g0TovHJOhgRpeDvsv2oFiBJPQGUbp3YQBvEYnbABTtbI5-VPEP5O2Sj0xmmwS1bHVwlbdjm0WJgX7-5XwGTq3POIYRMJFepB0D5HvllZX5vs_2yQmWczUzGKCQ/s400/DSC_8577m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229402079193271298" border="0"></a>This past week was the last of the morning super low tides of the year.<br /><br />Die-hard shore explorers took this opportunity to document our intertidal shores at their best.<br /><br />While seahorses are regularly sighted on our Northern shores, the true stars were the Sea Stars!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Changi remains a favourite shore and constantly surprises the diligent visitor. Such as <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/back-at-changi.html">sightings of rare sea stars</a>!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsQqFvDfidp8oKUx6zVpEL20JI_SsEFenJ9E1cpkh4v-SvHHNIdLodzuehY80ES1vGZLfQ4Azp5wa-VbkmdAHZoFLu5JywfCnohPdVZbhji2q0m1oL7QPAmt-8OhAmvM40ze9cNmcOnE/s1600-h/chg010808p19.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGsQqFvDfidp8oKUx6zVpEL20JI_SsEFenJ9E1cpkh4v-SvHHNIdLodzuehY80ES1vGZLfQ4Azp5wa-VbkmdAHZoFLu5JywfCnohPdVZbhji2q0m1oL7QPAmt-8OhAmvM40ze9cNmcOnE/s400/chg010808p19.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230570535748240354" border="0"></a>The first sightings of <font style="font-style: italic;">Luidia hardwickii</font>!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWID6BQCVI8-cek4qfdUKqeuPhKobjOdB5DyxwIzqZI6XGaQbSKC_F5N2_b3wZbi3STOFJBwML8J8XgXkJ5mO9Mo4Lf3vOei3NuhQjZF9tsmhbt10dmnYnO7RScyBl3IU96GHn4te6ew/s1600-h/chg010808p21.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKWID6BQCVI8-cek4qfdUKqeuPhKobjOdB5DyxwIzqZI6XGaQbSKC_F5N2_b3wZbi3STOFJBwML8J8XgXkJ5mO9Mo4Lf3vOei3NuhQjZF9tsmhbt10dmnYnO7RScyBl3IU96GHn4te6ew/s400/chg010808p21.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230570540856205426" border="0"></a>And the awesome Eight-armed sea star (<font style="font-style: italic;">Luidia maculata</font>). As well as lots of other stunning sea stars.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNtx9bwk-keCYqkm-mpyzYsBBUKJwsZ413vioAMUorx8gKl6nttV_pXx5kpCkKXUCnPXPgFcX1v1GFjXISmFNjLgBlZ84bwxo4noArrJE6eDsTYCbXHwB_QkAERMWcrDUhlJmEs7nKQU/s1600-h/DSC_8563m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNtx9bwk-keCYqkm-mpyzYsBBUKJwsZ413vioAMUorx8gKl6nttV_pXx5kpCkKXUCnPXPgFcX1v1GFjXISmFNjLgBlZ84bwxo4noArrJE6eDsTYCbXHwB_QkAERMWcrDUhlJmEs7nKQU/s400/DSC_8563m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230573327274183058" border="0"></a>Other encounters included a first look at <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/08/special-snails-and-strange-worms-on.html">special snails</a> such as a living Murex snail (<font style="font-style: italic;">Murex trapa</font>) and <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/curious-cucumbers-of-changi.html">strange sea cucumbers</a> and seahorses and other <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/fishes-at-changi.html">fishes</a> and <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/changi-closer-look.html">a closer look</a> at some of the common animals.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Just across the Johor Straits, during a <a href="http://cjproject.blogspot.com/2008/08/recovery-of-chek-jawa-thus-far.html">quick health check of Chek Jawa</a>, volunteers were delighted to find two Common sea stars (<font style="font-style: italic;">Archaster typicus</font>).<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxdR8U1mfcxFKskdlB73mWesaIdLtSTesfUZkxqKG1t1qUhEEVvkwiFPN3op7o7nPgH2Lcnat8sNRD0G4SOB7X1A65Odyz2Eep4GT34Qyh2vD2H1NhDATiNgtYDVKa2R-wtI6TyAop3U/s1600-h/cjstudy040808p27.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaxdR8U1mfcxFKskdlB73mWesaIdLtSTesfUZkxqKG1t1qUhEEVvkwiFPN3op7o7nPgH2Lcnat8sNRD0G4SOB7X1A65Odyz2Eep4GT34Qyh2vD2H1NhDATiNgtYDVKa2R-wtI6TyAop3U/s400/cjstudy040808p27.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230937760338023826" border="0"></a><br /></div>These sea stars were wiped in the aftermath of the flooding in 2007 and their return is eagerly awaited. Alas, they have yet to be found in the countless numbers as in the past. This clearly shows that we can't take our marine life for granted, if they are common.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQLx7NIMeG95fI1pOEVOW6hHrNhxYG-szFuHnNz6bz3cfBNy-Edrko3mZ9fA-R88u_N2wUbH6ejKKj7Uvepb-ixiu2JifXfGWi_unNqIkW-1MYsF8AtNAJ9O-05lKTEM0Ahk7XdhIUaE/s1600-h/cjstudy040808p24.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQLx7NIMeG95fI1pOEVOW6hHrNhxYG-szFuHnNz6bz3cfBNy-Edrko3mZ9fA-R88u_N2wUbH6ejKKj7Uvepb-ixiu2JifXfGWi_unNqIkW-1MYsF8AtNAJ9O-05lKTEM0Ahk7XdhIUaE/s400/cjstudy040808p24.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230937765199889346" border="0"></a><br /></div>A blue Knobbly sea star was also seen!<br /><br />There were more starry encounters on our other shores! <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/08/cyrene-reefs-4-aug-08.html">TeamSeagrass</a> was at Cyrene Reefs and encountered the intriguing "Blonde" sea star again.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8aI3dW2Nb5bIKyGz62U0RjDyCL7nIh5UCvH-5wWqFVRaHLEi7vpPP584t43NX5s5GtbvpdvwHCLNiNn_av03CuavChnMsURf1fyyzJzBBIoViesPF0ML-8ZpaHJ-_w13xEgcnnhr6Kaw/s1600-h/DSC_9170m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8aI3dW2Nb5bIKyGz62U0RjDyCL7nIh5UCvH-5wWqFVRaHLEi7vpPP584t43NX5s5GtbvpdvwHCLNiNn_av03CuavChnMsURf1fyyzJzBBIoViesPF0ML-8ZpaHJ-_w13xEgcnnhr6Kaw/s400/DSC_9170m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230624096604078162" border="0"></a>As well as possibly a juvenile <font style="font-style: italic;">Pentaceraster mammilatus</font>, the sea star discovered there in May and identified as a first record for Singapore. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPNJcFpdTQRKM6wvNKfa8kJGH40s9VbOCe8TbKRwUNb0gOXWtt4Fl51DIhUcuZYxseFxSBRj5jMxKMNseut2XWSSFD-WA-PqAkaIT7AgWbFJcyNzg99f7G_OkjgDebxc83TKcmQ9AC3A/s1600-h/DSC_9192m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPNJcFpdTQRKM6wvNKfa8kJGH40s9VbOCe8TbKRwUNb0gOXWtt4Fl51DIhUcuZYxseFxSBRj5jMxKMNseut2XWSSFD-WA-PqAkaIT7AgWbFJcyNzg99f7G_OkjgDebxc83TKcmQ9AC3A/s400/DSC_9192m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230624327541881730" border="0"></a>Here is it is compared with the more commonly seen Knobbly sea star (<font style="font-style: italic;">Protoreaster nodosus</font>) on the right.<br /><br />Unfortunately, <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/08/east-coast-quickly.html">a quick look at the East Coast shore</a> in an attempt to view the sea fans there, revealed that it was rather badly silted up. <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/08/what-happened-to-east-coast.html">What happened to this shore?</a> We don't really know.<br /><br />See more video clips of marine life encountered on our shores on the <a href="http://www.google.com/reader/view/feed/http%3A%2F%2Fsgbeachbum.blogspot.com%2Ffeeds%2Fposts%2Fdefault">sgbeachbum blog</a><br /><br />Another special encounter was the Rainbow Warrior!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1b3wZdCnvpIQQjTcnpMhZmtJq87EU3Q1_9DBJdDOWwvhdaxYExTGjiVrznA36Uxt6uHDl6QbQzcGbtlFNi1AF34CQQv4adBkkxy1IjrmyGvyK7WCW0bcZ8vEFQZxKQnYWxiBsJpbVh1Q/s1600-h/P8040128m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1b3wZdCnvpIQQjTcnpMhZmtJq87EU3Q1_9DBJdDOWwvhdaxYExTGjiVrznA36Uxt6uHDl6QbQzcGbtlFNi1AF34CQQv4adBkkxy1IjrmyGvyK7WCW0bcZ8vEFQZxKQnYWxiBsJpbVh1Q/s400/P8040128m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230624759821040370" border="0"></a>This famous ship was at the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club.</span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-78826420018794419152008-08-05T11:23:00.001+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.223+08:00Seagrass meadows of Singapore<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/2290489397_bafcc66a16.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 241px; height: 176px;" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3105/2290489397_bafcc66a16.jpg" alt="" border="0"></a>Seagrasses are found on almost all our natural shores! Undisturbed shores tend to have more luxuriant growths, but any natural shore is likely to have some seagrasses.<br /><br />Where they grow thickly, our seagrass meadows are like underwater forests, teeming with life!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><font style="font-weight: bold;">What are seagrasses and why are they important?</font><br /><br />Seagrasses are the only flowering plants adapted to grow submerged in the sea. Like other 'normal' land plants, seagrasses have green leaves. These leaves emerge from rhizomes (underground stems) that spread along the soft sediments.<br /><br />Seagrass meadows are a vital habitat that is often overlooked and loses out in media coverage to the more glamorous reefs. The meadows of seagrass leaves create a miniature underwater forest.<br /><br />A host of small plants and animals thrive in these thickets, such as this tiny Blue dragon nudibranch (<font style="font-style: italic;">Pteraeolidia ianthinia</font>) seen on Cyrene Reef's meadows. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXaX8N4Fv9Fhw-IemGfy0IGRksAfBIM-am7EGtw4WaH_viA0mYgJELZuy628I7HXIWF3tzf58LWSkYKZ3JwAOQoyk1vD0vxCJ6y88ED_BuXJQpTKpsICgLUxkULk9ThJgEl-7IhF9F4F0/s1600-h/DSC_8246m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXaX8N4Fv9Fhw-IemGfy0IGRksAfBIM-am7EGtw4WaH_viA0mYgJELZuy628I7HXIWF3tzf58LWSkYKZ3JwAOQoyk1vD0vxCJ6y88ED_BuXJQpTKpsICgLUxkULk9ThJgEl-7IhF9F4F0/s400/DSC_8246m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225783766879593378" border="0"></a>Seagrasses provide shelter for many animals that are not adapted for fast swimming, such as this seahorse seen on Changi's splendid seagrass meadows.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1173/1182173342_a4de5b645a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1173/1182173342_a4de5b645a.jpg" alt="" border="0"></a>Animals lay their eggs among and on the seagrass blades.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOtGxmBDYCY3YmW6AfsaXpZZxj-HST1FghexJu1Tb1wqoH3VaUxTPRbryKVuKfPcaHtsyYEfGrf-J47vbXt6StNJlRCNgneiVHmEWcMHjFHbimkc59k_bCEhgtl8S2qUmqClGlo4j1LU/s1600-h/DSC_8262m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnOtGxmBDYCY3YmW6AfsaXpZZxj-HST1FghexJu1Tb1wqoH3VaUxTPRbryKVuKfPcaHtsyYEfGrf-J47vbXt6StNJlRCNgneiVHmEWcMHjFHbimkc59k_bCEhgtl8S2qUmqClGlo4j1LU/s400/DSC_8262m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225784065636551298" border="0"></a>Seagrasses also shelter juveniles of larger fishes and animals that later move out into deeper waters, such as this tiny butterflyfish seen on Cyrene Reef. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDTV4hjKO9q6THSkdxVXU1rwSC7Jqfd1Kx6WcRbm7_AzAIT4fW1g25laRg_zkdmkXLsTMJJRTend_2snpfgKwv4rZFk5-zdBPs-6Vi6vYhjfFiBbVBFT5-p7JHRGt2hLl6oIMqMJZCmM/s1600-h/DSC_8270m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjDTV4hjKO9q6THSkdxVXU1rwSC7Jqfd1Kx6WcRbm7_AzAIT4fW1g25laRg_zkdmkXLsTMJJRTend_2snpfgKwv4rZFk5-zdBPs-6Vi6vYhjfFiBbVBFT5-p7JHRGt2hLl6oIMqMJZCmM/s400/DSC_8270m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225784068327590514" border="0"></a>The <a href="http://startrackers.blogspot.com/">Star Trackers</a> recently noted that the <a href="http://startrackers.blogspot.com/2008/05/cyrene-reef-important-habitat-for.html">seagrass meadows on Cyrene Reef</a> are important and possibly the only habitat left in Singapore where baby Knobbly sea stars (<font style="font-style: italic;">Protoreaster nodosus</font>) can be found in large numbers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS52amkPlN60_WcN58mlymPsLvXKrzURvIpV97bc80CPvgRK8rEKB7_owD86vw0iUFT-H974AP-IxwU5t9urLM75a5v6S2cF5A69ob6xUNp8Uzb5jK0SQcTP9Hzd_lLU6fgy_u_YdCk8/s1600-h/DSC_8256m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS52amkPlN60_WcN58mlymPsLvXKrzURvIpV97bc80CPvgRK8rEKB7_owD86vw0iUFT-H974AP-IxwU5t9urLM75a5v6S2cF5A69ob6xUNp8Uzb5jK0SQcTP9Hzd_lLU6fgy_u_YdCk8/s400/DSC_8256m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225783773204343506" border="0"></a>Many commercially important fishes and sea creatures such as prawns also spend their youth in seagrass meadows.<br /><br />The underground stems and roots of seagrasses form a mat which stabilises the ground, while their leaves slow the water flow and thus help keep sediments down and the water clear. The leaves also trap sediments and detritus and contribute to the nutrient cycle in the ecosystem. In the stabilised ground, many burrowing creatures make their homes such as the carpet anemones and peacock anemones of Chek Jawa.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8zKtcGHnKZ6D1XVTbM_uZZYW1MTPHcmY1jho0dzvM_aie3TOVBPK7AApxVG06OWYE3USOuk4jfIcacQrNlhxI0dN9Aa-IBTYzneCbo1mxJqB24-YNLxf9MrC5ouxlwTcd9PfCmulGNQ/s1600-h/080720cjd7868m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG8zKtcGHnKZ6D1XVTbM_uZZYW1MTPHcmY1jho0dzvM_aie3TOVBPK7AApxVG06OWYE3USOuk4jfIcacQrNlhxI0dN9Aa-IBTYzneCbo1mxJqB24-YNLxf9MrC5ouxlwTcd9PfCmulGNQ/s400/080720cjd7868m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225092681504894946" border="0"></a>Few animals can eat seagrasses, because few can digest the cellulose that makes up these plants. Among those that do feed on seagrasses are the Green turtle (<font style="font-style: italic;">Chelonia mydas</font>) and Hawksbill turtle (<font style="font-style: italic;">Eretmochelys imbricata</font>) as well as the Dugong (<font style="font-style: italic;">Dugong dugon</font>). Although dugongs have not been actually seen, <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2007/01/first-teamseagrass-field-orientation.html">dugong feeding trails were observed on Chek Jawa</a> in 2007!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1178/1059225230_fd73d5dc20.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1178/1059225230_fd73d5dc20.jpg" alt="" border="0"></a>Seagrasses do indirectly provide food to a large number of animals. Microscopic algae grow on their leaves and larger seaweeds get entangled among the seagrasses. Many small animals graze on these algae. They are in turn eaten by larger animals. In this way, seagrasses are an important part of the food chain in other ecosystems nearby, such as sandy shores, mangroves and coral reefs.<br /><br />Seagrass meadows are vital part of a rich and diverse shore. Dead seagrass leaves as they decay, provide nutrients to other ecosystems. By trapping sediments, the meadows keep the water clear for coral reefs to develop nearby. The stabilised areas where seagrasses grow may eventually be colonised by mangroves.<br /><br />According the <a href="http://www.seagrasswatch.org/seagrass.html">Seagrass-Watch site</a>, seagrass meadows are considered the third most valuable ecosystem globally. The average value of seagrasses for their nutrient cycling services and the raw product they provide has been estimated at US$ 19,004 per hectar per year (1994). This value would be significantly greater if the other services of seagrasses were included.<br /><br />All our seagrasses are listed among the threatened plants of Singapore.<br /><br />Seagrasses are affected by careless visitors who may unknowingly trample on their delicate underground stems. Nets dragged over seagrasses also uproot them and kill the animals that live there. Marine litter (plastic bags and other rubbish) smother seagrasses. They may also trap and kill small animals. Larger animals may accidentally eat them and die. Seagrasses are also affected by pollution that poison the water. Activities that stir up sediments also obscure sunlight and affects photosynthesis and thus the growth of seagrasses.<br /><br />However, the most damaging impact to seagrasses is habitat loss due to land reclamation and development of our shores. Seagrasses grow best on flats that are shallow but seldom totally out of water, and relatively calm. Too deep and there is not enough sunlight for photosynthesis; too shallow and the seagrasses are regularly out of water. Reclamation usually results in steeply sloping shores where seagrasses don't grow well.<br /><br /><a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/">TeamSeagrass</a> is a group of volunteers comprising ordinary people who come together to monitor our seagrasses. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTA5CuUwfK0_k4qOihLx-umXz9Imyi4s-BlATcuE73oaDQSOnwWGWmZAbiOeDC7QAVyWjZO64_sGQyQaaIac8VsZ4MW_gMjOV6WAgz4v7xJSMvN9iwdWbK8-hASK5FXzT2VlAtrNPVh5KR/s1600-h/080719sntd0019m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTA5CuUwfK0_k4qOihLx-umXz9Imyi4s-BlATcuE73oaDQSOnwWGWmZAbiOeDC7QAVyWjZO64_sGQyQaaIac8VsZ4MW_gMjOV6WAgz4v7xJSMvN9iwdWbK8-hASK5FXzT2VlAtrNPVh5KR/s400/080719sntd0019m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224665908823881442" border="0"></a>They go out at low tide, even if it's early in the morning, to collect data on the state of health of our seagrass meadows.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJflVGdcoCEh4mJVTufDYANS7tlYDzw-K6HgTdVd_5h3cEfwdj7xmPP0ppvxuFGk8gIHIS-CBdwBrdMY8NgznzOX6Uv2O_BxRkpWtPZN8w8nncby0jS24RPwRhSaFqPZsx1NxA20oH6WcG/s1600-h/080719sntd0014m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJflVGdcoCEh4mJVTufDYANS7tlYDzw-K6HgTdVd_5h3cEfwdj7xmPP0ppvxuFGk8gIHIS-CBdwBrdMY8NgznzOX6Uv2O_BxRkpWtPZN8w8nncby0jS24RPwRhSaFqPZsx1NxA20oH6WcG/s400/080719sntd0014m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224665909141134994" border="0"></a>Join TeamSeagrass to make a difference for our shores!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV7TnJtcWbs-oh3o_CEZQoTqBOaH0F5sYUWTloeX5oX0_I2Lv_uRPaNG8pNlRZVFJ_6VrdyOPwYgvRoc5mRB-KWTghDhG4p-RRNohk8SXzALPQjZM4Q9pH6QBFY_ua-tAQQYs9TbffBRjn/s1600-h/080120cjd8746m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV7TnJtcWbs-oh3o_CEZQoTqBOaH0F5sYUWTloeX5oX0_I2Lv_uRPaNG8pNlRZVFJ_6VrdyOPwYgvRoc5mRB-KWTghDhG4p-RRNohk8SXzALPQjZM4Q9pH6QBFY_ua-tAQQYs9TbffBRjn/s400/080120cjd8746m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157556731949251282" border="0"></a><font style="font-weight: bold;">More links</font><br /><ul><li><a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/">TeamSeagrass blog</a> read about their latest adventures, there's an <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2006/10/faq-for-teamseagrass.html">FAQ</a> about what's involved in the effort and how to join.</li><li><a href="http://wildsingaporenews.blogspot.com/search/label/seagrasses">Latest news</a> about seagrasses</li><li>Photos of <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wildsingapore/sets/72157600045054722/">seagrass meadows</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wildsingapore/sets/72157600000714159/">seagrass species</a></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-42156923064480621202008-08-04T15:22:00.001+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.224+08:00Seagrass species of Singapore<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBotazL7A_VH2kGe4D_hruYRXtUQ_pcUuvknS2luFA-GLoIcyGpUbB2_Vt-Z-GCyJP76coKxgu_7qQDpMPjvqOO8hbwWpSGmNaNDNsQLh3-2QDf67lL4fuTkU0X4er7lK_71wHNQSHdqFI/s1600-h/enhalus1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 242px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBotazL7A_VH2kGe4D_hruYRXtUQ_pcUuvknS2luFA-GLoIcyGpUbB2_Vt-Z-GCyJP76coKxgu_7qQDpMPjvqOO8hbwWpSGmNaNDNsQLh3-2QDf67lL4fuTkU0X4er7lK_71wHNQSHdqFI/s400/enhalus1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062545248694809810" border="0" /></a>Several species of seagrasses grow on our shores. These flowering plants that grow in the sea have fascinating features.<br /><br />Here's a quick introduction to all the species that can be found in Singapore.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Tape seagrass (<em>Enhalus acoroides</em>) is the longest seagrass found on our shores. The leaf blade is 1-2cm wide and can be 1.5m long!<br /><br />Pulau Semakau has vast tracts of Tape seagrass meadows that stretch for kilometres! There's also lots of Tape seagrass at Cyrene Reefs.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW1UsSptto5sVEO56TN5tZuUxGyU93i_uOjq5KK55xgBet6YuAFVK6b6FROBC3kgZSuElAYz9Okv1m7eX1C5O_vyIWn-RbotJO3IDqdgMXHAp2ue1H33tlvmGjqd7mkVJqZrWE4kwX-sh/s1600-h/enhalus2a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW1UsSptto5sVEO56TN5tZuUxGyU93i_uOjq5KK55xgBet6YuAFVK6b6FROBC3kgZSuElAYz9Okv1m7eX1C5O_vyIWn-RbotJO3IDqdgMXHAp2ue1H33tlvmGjqd7mkVJqZrWE4kwX-sh/s400/enhalus2a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062545248694809826" border="0" /></a>Male flowers of the Tape seagrass are tiny (see the small white bits?). They form in a bract (the green V-shaped thing) that grows at the base of the plant. The male flowers float and tend to stick to one another. During a bloom of Tape seagrass, little 'rafts' of male flowers are often seen floating on the water. They look like little bits of styrofoam!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9xAyAqLQH7xCUYDcCh-9sYSPhvmBqbvaQ-WuCiCUKnhK8GNoFEHNgEaHO26flNJzzPSKNXcB1T16pHs0BZEgJGJtL_wEJ5hROvEr917KgYXke8eRujZZlRCqU-3Dh68oInJcEAdC6TKm/s1600-h/enhalus2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9xAyAqLQH7xCUYDcCh-9sYSPhvmBqbvaQ-WuCiCUKnhK8GNoFEHNgEaHO26flNJzzPSKNXcB1T16pHs0BZEgJGJtL_wEJ5hROvEr917KgYXke8eRujZZlRCqU-3Dh68oInJcEAdC6TKm/s400/enhalus2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062547009631401330" border="0" /></a>The female flower of Tape seagrass is large and emerges on a long coiled stalk. The pale yellowish petals last only for a day or so. Often, all that is seen are the V-shaped bracts. Soon, the large fruit develops. It is a hairy oval capsule that holds several seeds. The seeds are said to be edible and are eaten by some coastal dwellers. The raw seeds are said to taste like chestnuts.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcQQD-VyRtlIy4107V4oye9CDlJfEgrORp44N1xS1NNUXx-Vzu5aiVsSZjvZVJQxvIlVCN85ej2MkQuBpNL-jpvQ0BfexSUa0kJIrED9U5qcgG_XseadoDnnSYhZYDsp4F9ufYjbQCE_-/s1600-h/halophila1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAcQQD-VyRtlIy4107V4oye9CDlJfEgrORp44N1xS1NNUXx-Vzu5aiVsSZjvZVJQxvIlVCN85ej2MkQuBpNL-jpvQ0BfexSUa0kJIrED9U5qcgG_XseadoDnnSYhZYDsp4F9ufYjbQCE_-/s400/halophila1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062546331026568466" border="0" /></a>There are several species of <em>Halophila</em> seagrasses. Some have oval leaves and thus called Spoon seagrasses. The various species of oval-shaped <em>Halophila</em> are difficult to differentiate in the field, so all of them are generally referred to as <em>Halophila ovalis</em> complex. These seagrasses are the most commonly encountered on many of our shores.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Wu0yoLJ1Pd3qzjcDxQ4pbkL1DDTFKy2ONf-Zrz8poVXCN4wkqpXGYy7eZaSK__nuFyN9Dh7lMBxwmdEOmw6bcLOTxehoymUtonaHwvKyef7RwSZNwQ-Jus50mKPwPVfyZE0H-wJUWyUe/s1600-h/halophila2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Wu0yoLJ1Pd3qzjcDxQ4pbkL1DDTFKy2ONf-Zrz8poVXCN4wkqpXGYy7eZaSK__nuFyN9Dh7lMBxwmdEOmw6bcLOTxehoymUtonaHwvKyef7RwSZNwQ-Jus50mKPwPVfyZE0H-wJUWyUe/s400/halophila2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062546331026568482" border="0" /></a>The beautiful Fern seagrass (<em>Halophila spinulosa</em>) is made up of many little leaflets. Usually a bright green, sometimes with a bluish tint, this seagrass is widespread on Chek Jawa, Pulau Sekudu as well as Changi.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt8QDhak_kWn7aoecGP1iRMezzxshYZHbRf7HbD6dYoZZf-uNTX5bgnUBpKp7RtVVYqmDKdDEDA00wKPdOujKYwXBu7Los6II4elzkG3oBLb8jm4KhZMG0vS4TWORD5QNI3LLAn2xGS_v/s1600-h/halophila3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt8QDhak_kWn7aoecGP1iRMezzxshYZHbRf7HbD6dYoZZf-uNTX5bgnUBpKp7RtVVYqmDKdDEDA00wKPdOujKYwXBu7Los6II4elzkG3oBLb8jm4KhZMG0vS4TWORD5QNI3LLAn2xGS_v/s400/halophila3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062546335321535794" border="0" /></a>Singapore is home to the delicate Beccarri's seagrass (<em>Halophila beccarrii</em>). The tiny leaves of this seagrass emerges in a rosette of 4-5 leaves. Elsewhere in the world, this seagrass is considered rare. But it is quite commonly seen on Chek Jawa. It is also seen at the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUH6XXg3xpfXmqWazuXRftWTpYsuYdbo0A23WrAotkbNYN1tOEVIJ2TVIQcdohtxoct49cBU2NxmDx03afRn0VWtTMMdfX9eT64Oy7huUnCK7J85dcdCpttVD-rDj_zbl9Py7MUy0lzrg-/s1600-h/cymodocea2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUH6XXg3xpfXmqWazuXRftWTpYsuYdbo0A23WrAotkbNYN1tOEVIJ2TVIQcdohtxoct49cBU2NxmDx03afRn0VWtTMMdfX9eT64Oy7huUnCK7J85dcdCpttVD-rDj_zbl9Py7MUy0lzrg-/s400/cymodocea2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062545244399842498" border="0" /></a>There is a large patch of ribbon seagrass (<em>Cymodocea rotundata</em>) on Chek Jawa.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxj3w0YaDU2Bh_YZpngeB7DS43UPhw25ZsoGqlkNUHjbhYkCn4q13jg-ILjML_bEZg9qosUA2rKUGMyy8LAYJimIy8eIwfQrv5wGn-4Uyhry_K-8t8azlaHieQzZ6EYFQax94Z9B2X3iaQ/s1600-h/cymodocea1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxj3w0YaDU2Bh_YZpngeB7DS43UPhw25ZsoGqlkNUHjbhYkCn4q13jg-ILjML_bEZg9qosUA2rKUGMyy8LAYJimIy8eIwfQrv5wGn-4Uyhry_K-8t8azlaHieQzZ6EYFQax94Z9B2X3iaQ/s400/cymodocea1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062545244399842482" border="0" /></a>This elegant seagrass is narrower and not as long as Tape seagrass. A related seagrass is <span style="font-style: italic;">Cymodocea serrulata</span> which has a serrated leaf tip and is found on Pulau Semakau and Cyrene Reefs.<br /><br />Needle seagrass (<span style="font-style: italic;">Halodule </span>sp.) is also often seen on many of our shores.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32pm-se6bzk_DC17Kf6SILQyJF9KU4X0nyuqZ99TTTefVDe8QyvGKuQSJUJtriGzOzSJRBO3nKzr0bfFJli9BqmkTa3DFY9GTLMFC55Vt_Nwm_v1x_QSu0y5J6RRmlt9v-YX4jlGJHuLN/s1600-h/halodule1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32pm-se6bzk_DC17Kf6SILQyJF9KU4X0nyuqZ99TTTefVDe8QyvGKuQSJUJtriGzOzSJRBO3nKzr0bfFJli9BqmkTa3DFY9GTLMFC55Vt_Nwm_v1x_QSu0y5J6RRmlt9v-YX4jlGJHuLN/s400/halodule1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062545248694809842" border="0" /></a>The leaves may be thin and needle-like, and in some places quite broad and long so that they resemble some other similar seagrasses. <span style="font-style: italic;">Halodule </span>is distinguished by a single prominent central vein in the leaf blade.<br /><br />Sickle seagrass (<em>Thalassia hemprichii</em>) is indeed sickle-shaped.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tLoV8aTStGh4UkX7i9AYh2VcedkUIjpYeF9iIIboAVwJMWprqSO-syAY9VukqJEL7hX9gqc15rbd1HaUgEOXq_87n89qVhvbDb1uzFnFxrPQLdGJF5ayjBVJtKNRnfpy8MCAGtAvLold/s1600-h/thalassia1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tLoV8aTStGh4UkX7i9AYh2VcedkUIjpYeF9iIIboAVwJMWprqSO-syAY9VukqJEL7hX9gqc15rbd1HaUgEOXq_87n89qVhvbDb1uzFnFxrPQLdGJF5ayjBVJtKNRnfpy8MCAGtAvLold/s400/thalassia1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062547009631401298" border="0" /></a>A lush meadow of this seagrass grows on Labrador, the last on our mainland.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNstC7Ebtwny7vHce-5kmNp9WQK5U3pLiE7Lgw37vwRxhMDFt-firqFaAn_iWWORMc05enGmu-JBtXJ3v-LuqZFpjs9wZ7IsLfJruDiCjeRKz6TXXQoL_toqZrbtwKox_8y9Z_-CGKfho/s1600-h/thalassia2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNstC7Ebtwny7vHce-5kmNp9WQK5U3pLiE7Lgw37vwRxhMDFt-firqFaAn_iWWORMc05enGmu-JBtXJ3v-LuqZFpjs9wZ7IsLfJruDiCjeRKz6TXXQoL_toqZrbtwKox_8y9Z_-CGKfho/s400/thalassia2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062547009631401314" border="0" /></a>Sickle seagrass has little flowers with curly 'whiskers'.<br /><br /><em>Syringodium isoetifolium</em> is a strange seagrass. Its leaf blade is cylindrical, like plastic tubing!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4NmtYYIHJMe0L62-kaBwXDwz-760_5N1iD5G99slUi5HWzkdoGDdqJ_Zo2m7Cc6SwiDqEn89rGM9gm9semXytmcx0nbkcaNyeS5ffekqET1TPNYTocGiY7X9Vm6Pb0SCvst-jepAVDdGd/s1600-h/syringodium1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4NmtYYIHJMe0L62-kaBwXDwz-760_5N1iD5G99slUi5HWzkdoGDdqJ_Zo2m7Cc6SwiDqEn89rGM9gm9semXytmcx0nbkcaNyeS5ffekqET1TPNYTocGiY7X9Vm6Pb0SCvst-jepAVDdGd/s400/syringodium1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5062546335321535810" border="0" /></a><em></em>It is commonly seen on Pulau Semakau and Cyrene Reefs.<br /><br />Learn more about our seagrass meadows in the next article, and how you CAN make a difference for our seagrasses and shores.</span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-68293318300500611222008-08-03T19:54:00.000+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.225+08:00Crabby Clowns of Changi<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Hv_0Bziu_wB4U3jqhJU4veMVDwykYu8Kk1o_Dj7xVvVmGTpWWyXhiPAzrqsJ-wMzkBJGGvOwkdbgWYA5j6wjIdQV6j8xv72_qkDwOD1ZKPBBB9BdhG0uG0uqO5w9X4-JJEKnn6ofUak/s1600-h/2727676984_6e346d21a9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; float: right; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 249px; height: 165px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Hv_0Bziu_wB4U3jqhJU4veMVDwykYu8Kk1o_Dj7xVvVmGTpWWyXhiPAzrqsJ-wMzkBJGGvOwkdbgWYA5j6wjIdQV6j8xv72_qkDwOD1ZKPBBB9BdhG0uG0uqO5w9X4-JJEKnn6ofUak/s400/2727676984_6e346d21a9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230238218421042818" border="0" /></a>Hermit crabs can be seen on almost all our natural shores. And they are a delight to observe.<br /><br />Like some Singaporeans, hermit crabs also obsess about upgrading and hoard their favourite stuff (like sea anemones).<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />How do hermit crabs find a shell that fits them? Do they all have sea anemones on their shells? What is the role of sea anemones on their shells? How do hermit crabs court their ladies?<br /><br />Marcus shares more about these amazing animals on his <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/08/hermits-of-changi.html">Annotated Budak blog</a><br /><br />Thank you to Marcus for allowing us to post this as a feature article on the IYOR blog!<br /><br />If you have any articles that you'd like us to add to the IYOR blog, do email us at <a href="mailto:iyor08singapore@gmail.com">iyor08singapore@gmail.com</a></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-55646280936627307802008-07-30T09:00:00.002+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.225+08:00Sotong!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/128/421873846_1ca89f4faf.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; cursor: pointer; float: right; width: 245px; height: 180px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/128/421873846_1ca89f4faf.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Among our favourite seafood, "sotong" or squids and cuttlefishes are commonly seen on some of our shores.<br /><br />These delightful creatures are delicious to observe, with their colour changes and busy behaviour.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What are squids and cuttlefish?</span> They are not fish! These animals are molluscs (Phylum Molusca) like snails, slugs and clams. They belong to the subgroup of molluscs called cephalopods (Class Cephalopoda) which include octopuses.<br /><br />Compared to their more sedate cousins the slugs and snails, squids and cuttlefishes are fast-moving predators that hunt speedy prey like fish. They may also hunt snails and clams, crabs and prawns. Most have a horny bird-like beak to rip up prey.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jet-propelled molluscs:</span> Squids and cuttlefish squirt a jet of water out of a funnel to zoom off in the opposite direction. They can move in any direction, but move fastest backwards.<br /><br />Squids tend to be more streamlined than cuttlefish. Squids are among the fastest aquatic invertebrates, some can reach speeds of up to 40km/hr. A cuttlefish can also hover or swim slowly by undulating the fins along the sides of its body. A squid does not have this all-round fin. Instead, the fin is limited to a triangular flap at the tip of the body, which acts as stabilisers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDRoe5ehkHpZRfauKwiaANNZ8wJJq4FKrTRXJ8d7MhEtf_-bOAsYFKXAgfay6Ku-PXkaPxU-OSawk7S0edXje_7xpiwWZXKfUUz798HagWPLEnJjIUvPKGGnRHaZfzGXOi00jW3JYCAQ/s1600-h/ballsquid.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDRoe5ehkHpZRfauKwiaANNZ8wJJq4FKrTRXJ8d7MhEtf_-bOAsYFKXAgfay6Ku-PXkaPxU-OSawk7S0edXje_7xpiwWZXKfUUz798HagWPLEnJjIUvPKGGnRHaZfzGXOi00jW3JYCAQ/s400/ballsquid.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227686366001828322" border="0" /></a>This ball-shaped squid, however, is not very streamlined. It reminds me of Dumbo the Flying elephant, with its pair of large fins around a fat body. It is sometimes seen on Changi, usually burying itself in sand when disturbed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lightweight shell:</span> Relying on speed, squids and cuttlefish do not have a thick, heavy outer shell. Their shells are reduced to lightweight internal bones. In squids, the bone is thin and pencil-like. In cuttlefish, these are flat surfboards riddled with tiny gas-filled chambers. By controlling the amount of gas in the cuttlebone, the cuttlefish can control its bouyancy. The cuttlebone is often seen on the beach among the flotsam. Cuttlebones are sold in pet shops as a source of calcium for caged birds.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Armed and Dangerous: </span>Squids and cuttlefish have eight arms. These arms are short and stout, with suckers along their entire length. Some have toothed suckers and hooks for an even better grip.<br /><br />In addition to the eight arms, squids and cuttlefish also have a pair of tentacles. These may be twice as long as the arms, are thinner and have spoon-shaped tips. Only the tips have suckers. A squid or cuttlefish uses these two longer tentacles to grab prey. These tentacles shoot out and retract in an eye blink, bringing the prey within the grasp of the eight shorter arms which firmly grip the prey for the killing bite with its sharp beak.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmIfpNxmXaQHLLdLbg32NY6Dvs8JPEyDESzOUibBEwWmUSJyjTgsylq9ALOoqLztjMiZPb38O6fZoNiHvinOsw1T0qD_WDjJcmTN_FkazWIrf3QE0z1NQpmfgsRen6QvtYn4gh9XEDr8/s1600-h/squid2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMmIfpNxmXaQHLLdLbg32NY6Dvs8JPEyDESzOUibBEwWmUSJyjTgsylq9ALOoqLztjMiZPb38O6fZoNiHvinOsw1T0qD_WDjJcmTN_FkazWIrf3QE0z1NQpmfgsRen6QvtYn4gh9XEDr8/s400/squid2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227686371625728370" border="0" /></a>This tiny squid is common on our shores but often missed. In the photo on the left, you can see the two tentacles extended beyond the arms. And in the photo on the right, the little squid has caught a tiny shrimp!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Disappearing Ink:</span> When alarmed, squids and cuttlefish may squirt a cloud of 'ink'. The ink may contain substances that affect the senses of other sea creatures. The inky clouded water also allows it to make a getaway. Sometimes, mucous is also released that 'holds' the ink into a shape that distracts the predator.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf5ZuBpWOw6OwtTRDlkQmSIrV6CPd3pnUwfQ42h1X1Sz-I8oxC1HaJ5hFLGrkqkzFgfGDdSdWoxB-WXvGEkEezEoSPaneGAfGJ8LH2hhIh9dJHV9WrXIHcN56DKDSyLWlu7ABgeSs9yU/s1600-h/squid3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimf5ZuBpWOw6OwtTRDlkQmSIrV6CPd3pnUwfQ42h1X1Sz-I8oxC1HaJ5hFLGrkqkzFgfGDdSdWoxB-WXvGEkEezEoSPaneGAfGJ8LH2hhIh9dJHV9WrXIHcN56DKDSyLWlu7ABgeSs9yU/s400/squid3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227686987712897234" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Colourful Talk:</span> Squids and cuttlefish can rapidly change colours to hide from predators and prey by matching their surroundings. The colour changes are achieved by contracting and expanding special 'pockets' of colour in their bodies.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYU95dJxOwb0SQw-1llm2AIBMLXPqeM5IvpOY1ECZMwwMnIXvfYJz9lY9G3s7ua3RstuB-p97c25uOPzHWrCUq945c3wyujVYYqfyCa43bZxDVP18vkMHEcLGAmjhXnGO5ZgB8g32WCY/s1600-h/squid1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxYU95dJxOwb0SQw-1llm2AIBMLXPqeM5IvpOY1ECZMwwMnIXvfYJz9lY9G3s7ua3RstuB-p97c25uOPzHWrCUq945c3wyujVYYqfyCa43bZxDVP18vkMHEcLGAmjhXnGO5ZgB8g32WCY/s400/squid1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227686370123875746" border="0" /></a>These colour changes are also used to communicate with each other, for example during courtship. In some species, males and females display different colours and patterns.<br /><br />Eggs are laid in capsules, attached to hard objects and surfaces; or inserted into crevices and other hiding places. In the phots below are eggs found on seaweed and on sponges.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivs36SPJQGzMVdRa5npQnUQ3BRwrzECWrHRw-koRHpuBRvInsFBD2zVRAxv-4nwaL0dNDLTUW4uC3GiO9EzB0NGDic05HGAfTH16S_V4FUjdHUq7ia-1oMQN617d7Hze0vqvYJ_no10zo/s1600-h/eggs2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivs36SPJQGzMVdRa5npQnUQ3BRwrzECWrHRw-koRHpuBRvInsFBD2zVRAxv-4nwaL0dNDLTUW4uC3GiO9EzB0NGDic05HGAfTH16S_V4FUjdHUq7ia-1oMQN617d7Hze0vqvYJ_no10zo/s400/eggs2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227686365482765634" border="0" /></a>Some cuttlefish incorporate ink into the capsules, making them black.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XHGfpucDLBsE934g0Y5es4vOZNpJgdHzgew2Bj1E-5nlTdd9w1yto2unp8pxedj5WFcHGtORlPUW7FpQtWkHUiIIYHQQLtppYrugedmgD1F9WDL54dcKZqobRn24IqoVqJ_4Q5NFVkg/s1600-h/eggs1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XHGfpucDLBsE934g0Y5es4vOZNpJgdHzgew2Bj1E-5nlTdd9w1yto2unp8pxedj5WFcHGtORlPUW7FpQtWkHUiIIYHQQLtppYrugedmgD1F9WDL54dcKZqobRn24IqoVqJ_4Q5NFVkg/s400/eggs1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227686367788198786" border="0" /></a>Squids usually mate only once in their life and die soon after mating and laying eggs. Cuttlefish don't produce as many eggs as squids.<br /><br />People everywhere enjoy eating squids and cuttlefish. In Asia, they may be eaten freshly cooked, or they may be dried. They are also made into candied snacks. In the past, cuttlefish ink, called 'sepia', was used for writing and painting.<br /><br />Squids also have a role in human medical applications. Squids have gigantic nerve cells that are relatively easy to study. Much of what we know about our own nervous system is based on studies of squid nerve cells. Several Nobel prizes were based on such studies! The squid's efficient jet propulsion system is also inspiring designs for better underwater vehicles.<br /><br />None of our squids or cuttlefishes are listed among the endangered animals of Singapore. However, like other creatures of the intertidal zone, they are affected by human activities such as reclamation and pollution. Trampling by careless visitors and over-collection can also affect local populations.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sotong stupid?</span> Locally, the word 'sotong' is often used to describe someone who is clueless. But obviously, squids and cuttlefishes are quite smart. So it's not certain why this came about.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Links to more </span><br />More photos of our squids and cuttlefishes on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wildsingapore/sets/72157594587657091/">wildsingapore flickr</a></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-89951933123457697462008-07-29T09:00:00.002+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.226+08:00Surprising Snails of Singapore<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1243/601687918_79718ceca6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 180px;" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1243/601687918_79718ceca6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Almost everyone knows what a snail looks like. The familiar land snails that we see, however, are the tip of the snail iceberg. Most snails are marine!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />You are almost certain to see a snail on almost every shore. They are found on moist rocks and boulders, on mangrove trees and other hard surfaces near the sea. They also creep among the seagrasses, while small ones creep ON seagrasses and seaweeds. Others plough through the sand. Yet more specialise on plants and animals of the coral rubble area or reefs.<br /><br />The snails that most of us are familiar with typically has a large muscular foot supporting a the rest of the body and internal organs. In most, the entire snail can be retracted into a protective shell.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Shells for life:</span> A snail makes its own shell and stays in the same shell all its life. It does not moult its shell like a crab does. You can only remove a snail from its shell by killing it. All shells sold as souvenirs are obtained by harvesting living snails and killing them.<br /><br />A shell is made mostly of calcium carbonate and shell material is added to both the outer edge as well as existing shell so that a shell gets both bigger and thicker with age.The snail's shell is secreted by a thin, specialised tissue called the mantle. Pigment cells in the mantle create the beautiful colours and patterns of the shell.<br /><br />Here's some of the beautiful patterns found in some of our moon snails (Family Naticidae).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SvejP92gX5MOE9X7QGXPA2ayHFSWzDUASNaQHv8MvbBwUoFAlkXU2DBU6QY-hVFJWQnMcG87EVZCxeiC8dxsw1bZoSxKsbZ6YA1Nd3PKAKCizw4vMuvpMzqsM74Z0bwPkuRBnm5Gm2c/s1600-h/moonsnail1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SvejP92gX5MOE9X7QGXPA2ayHFSWzDUASNaQHv8MvbBwUoFAlkXU2DBU6QY-hVFJWQnMcG87EVZCxeiC8dxsw1bZoSxKsbZ6YA1Nd3PKAKCizw4vMuvpMzqsM74Z0bwPkuRBnm5Gm2c/s400/moonsnail1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227702313030400866" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkNCxASKDUFJwnkXNwAkHGNG9NNqRExU3VU5kiNZ5gAmGI93vXUWPGcpXzLCQ3vs0rRjVoTgUKni9p9LKyFFbh2q17ZgNu2DQbhi-jQRWHwmFoYbF1qUY2pbMIU77iU7_ZrOoWgK2VBk/s1600-h/moonsnail2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXkNCxASKDUFJwnkXNwAkHGNG9NNqRExU3VU5kiNZ5gAmGI93vXUWPGcpXzLCQ3vs0rRjVoTgUKni9p9LKyFFbh2q17ZgNu2DQbhi-jQRWHwmFoYbF1qUY2pbMIU77iU7_ZrOoWgK2VBk/s400/moonsnail2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227702319703057330" border="0" /></a>The outer surface of a shell is usually covered with a tough protein layer. Some snails may have a layer of fine brown hair (called periostracum) on their shells. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKJfeeyQ5yMo0fSDF4kzqkWP1TudxzQWy6xFNSryYmA32Dh3jxknGctT7q9Euj1o8ZrngTIl-5pWLBvzrWLS-Zq5i1hdJYVcsy0y8Tv304Pf0Uq7YX6-UrmBJ4giItZMyQm1wxZ1kQYI/s1600-h/melogena.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKJfeeyQ5yMo0fSDF4kzqkWP1TudxzQWy6xFNSryYmA32Dh3jxknGctT7q9Euj1o8ZrngTIl-5pWLBvzrWLS-Zq5i1hdJYVcsy0y8Tv304Pf0Uq7YX6-UrmBJ4giItZMyQm1wxZ1kQYI/s400/melogena.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227702307621861378" border="0" /></a>The Spiral melongena (<span style="font-style: italic;">Pugilina cochlidium</span>) is commonly seen on our shores. When the snail is alive, its shell is covered with hairs that trap sediments and thus camouflages this large snail. When the snail dies, the shell is smooth and bright orange. A hermit crab usually moves in to use the empty shell.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mobile home: </span>The shell protects a snail from drying out as well as from predators. Shells come in a a wide range of shapes, textures and sizes. These tell us a lot about the way of life of the owner. Some have spikes to keep off predators or large lips to protect them as they forage for food. Others have pointed tips to protect the siphon (long tube-like body part).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Snail door: </span>There's one problem with the shell, there's a big hole in it!<br /><br />Most snails close the shell opening with an operculum (a hard 'door') attached to the foot. The operculum may be thick and tough to prevent crabs from getting a grip of the edge of the door and digging out the snail.<br /><br />Nerites (Family Neritidae) (in the photo on the left) are commonly seen on our rocky shores. They have door with a lock! The operculum locks shut so that its more difficult for crabs to dig out the snail.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQoUArpajnZ6eqp2AIEwjjk3lXuhaeeZjT5kWgxgCYIRZjo8gQX-yGReS-RH3s4peACtEzHt8lqV1y3qT7qbYo2eq63seeBxPbWz1e9aqV16YPsTjIyIdY4ne50hNjOh436MXwLfQjKE/s1600-h/operculum.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMQoUArpajnZ6eqp2AIEwjjk3lXuhaeeZjT5kWgxgCYIRZjo8gQX-yGReS-RH3s4peACtEzHt8lqV1y3qT7qbYo2eq63seeBxPbWz1e9aqV16YPsTjIyIdY4ne50hNjOh436MXwLfQjKE/s400/operculum.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227702317844194562" border="0" /></a>In the Turban snail (<span style="font-style: italic;">Turbo bruneus</span>) (in the photo on the right), the operculum is thick and rounded, also thwarting crabs who might try to pry out the snail.<br /><br />In others, the operculum is thin and flexible so that the snail can withdraw deep within the coiling shell out of reach of crab claws. Like this Top shell snail (<span style="font-style: italic;">Monodontia labio</span>) in the photo on the left. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntcSlWE57vfWTw6LBvov0P8h4LayaJcQ-IEaoCocGvCFIKAMDFrcepUW3fSL5WYYJVCMlorxBpI8bWlAb4JYM1wo_GAQccu68NJW46zMxmpZ8Ny89aYorEaL_FNBo93iWJdY5AmWdfqI/s1600-h/operculum2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntcSlWE57vfWTw6LBvov0P8h4LayaJcQ-IEaoCocGvCFIKAMDFrcepUW3fSL5WYYJVCMlorxBpI8bWlAb4JYM1wo_GAQccu68NJW46zMxmpZ8Ny89aYorEaL_FNBo93iWJdY5AmWdfqI/s400/operculum2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227703412204448418" border="0" /></a>In some shells, the opening may be narrow and thickened so crabs can't stick their fat pincers in. As in the dove snails (Family Columbellidae) in the photo on the right.<br /><br />The operculum may also be used for more than just shutting the door. In Conch snails (Family Strombidae), the operculum is shaped like a dagger and used like a pole-vault to hop along.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT3rbbqcWwyVfu7P7vRXYAFKrTg1QflHynjknTKnYv727lJddjCEeBL_1AlkpzF38TjweoDDan7-U4SJ8veEAR5ouqhM_dQgku6EYU3MrCBHYG0WbsJbljUDWki3GiWFGpHgYuOlbtgk/s1600-h/conch.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT3rbbqcWwyVfu7P7vRXYAFKrTg1QflHynjknTKnYv727lJddjCEeBL_1AlkpzF38TjweoDDan7-U4SJ8veEAR5ouqhM_dQgku6EYU3MrCBHYG0WbsJbljUDWki3GiWFGpHgYuOlbtgk/s400/conch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227701635959347090" border="0" /></a>From left to right are the beautiful large spider conch (<span style="font-style: italic;">Lambis lambis</span>) and the smaller edible Gong-gong (<span style="font-style: italic;">Strombus canarium</span>).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What happens when a snail dies?</span> Empty shells are not wasted! They are vital to hermit crabs. We should NOT take home empty shells from the shore as we might be depriving a hermit crab of a home. Also, these shells eventually break down into calcium that baby snails need to make their new homes.<br /><br />Here's a group of the Striped hermit crabs (<span style="font-style: italic;">Clibanarius </span>sp.) that have made homes out of a wide range of empty shells! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2260/2249695708_8645a7d13b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2260/2249695708_8645a7d13b.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Although they look soft, some snails can drill holes through the shells of their prey. These snails are conveniently called Drills!<br /><br />Drills (Family Muricidae) that live on the rocks prey on other shelled creatures, especially barnacles. To bore a hole through the victim's shell, a drill softens the shell with an acid secreted by a special gland on the underside of its foot. A hole is slowly created with a little help from its rough 'tongue' (called the radula). It can take eight hours for a drill to get through a shell 2mm thick. Yawn!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRULnNIgMmNwWeyu8PDYir0mSKebKm6uUlS59kG997YzPn03TqD6wSY_Rt9HUHWlWoy3rAsw8Skhdq8ARWDujjBW_J0xIdiRUbtAJTMBqd9Wh5ADiyLVVYkoJoCnh9oLYhrSne5zgf_Q4/s1600-h/drill.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRULnNIgMmNwWeyu8PDYir0mSKebKm6uUlS59kG997YzPn03TqD6wSY_Rt9HUHWlWoy3rAsw8Skhdq8ARWDujjBW_J0xIdiRUbtAJTMBqd9Wh5ADiyLVVYkoJoCnh9oLYhrSne5zgf_Q4/s400/drill.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227701637701754018" border="0" /></a>It is common to encounter drills on our rocky shores huddled together to lay masses of bright yellow egg capsules. Each egg capsule may contain 20-40 eggs. The egg capsules turn purple when the free-swimming larvae hatch.<br /><br />Marine snails are among our favourite seafood. These include the Gong gong and other Conch snails, Chut Chut and other Creeper snails. Abalone is a gastropod and not a bivalve! Wild populations of this snail is under severe pressure from over collection.<br /><br />Many snails are also killed merely for their shells.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5s6fQUltZU6KlBxzfxwZLlFYKiWB_B9tCCrvguYVY9bkTn2DytkvkApHWrCRRbrvr_WLfK8s_L_f2rFdqkGj9684wt8vvVt5YJQhawe3_6AFjlpTIfDFDsqFhqAxXKWRwhdbjrOb_dg/s1600-h/cowrie1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ5s6fQUltZU6KlBxzfxwZLlFYKiWB_B9tCCrvguYVY9bkTn2DytkvkApHWrCRRbrvr_WLfK8s_L_f2rFdqkGj9684wt8vvVt5YJQhawe3_6AFjlpTIfDFDsqFhqAxXKWRwhdbjrOb_dg/s400/cowrie1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227701638425496578" border="0" /></a>Cowries are among the most sought after shells. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4i1JgGiqhskbtUXPgeL4RI79KNK-35unpqKch0XsClAqhgN9igxWCmSJ70FbeoCpfMsBLZx4YHkcMn-nHcsCQmslI8zkCxsQQr8TV2j_HtEiB-iV1gK3ZN6QXOMqapM9GnTO8FQ_oAU/s1600-h/cowrie2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4i1JgGiqhskbtUXPgeL4RI79KNK-35unpqKch0XsClAqhgN9igxWCmSJ70FbeoCpfMsBLZx4YHkcMn-nHcsCQmslI8zkCxsQQr8TV2j_HtEiB-iV1gK3ZN6QXOMqapM9GnTO8FQ_oAU/s400/cowrie2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227701638087841218" border="0" /></a>Living snails are harvested and killed for the shell trade. The living snail, however, is often more beautiful than its empty shell.<br /><br />Sadly, many of our beautiful and fascinating snails are listed among the threatened animals of Singapore. Like other marine creatures, they are vulnerable to habitat loss due to reclamation or human activities along the coast that pollute the water. They are also vulnerable to trampling by careless visitors and over-collection for food and for their shells can affect local populations.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVF7HhaTRxVwjLrpxNBHQQ_pkqHR7bRqFuvXTDXBQVkNjGi2glGiq0_YJ-S0g0QoKxLeyQi75PvZ1Nniry91BWfnpq26M7AHcDgZpEKSHq_R3Tfb2usedNdUlkZGUEFgYINtD3d-q-SQ/s1600-h/melo.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTVF7HhaTRxVwjLrpxNBHQQ_pkqHR7bRqFuvXTDXBQVkNjGi2glGiq0_YJ-S0g0QoKxLeyQi75PvZ1Nniry91BWfnpq26M7AHcDgZpEKSHq_R3Tfb2usedNdUlkZGUEFgYINtD3d-q-SQ/s400/melo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227701641471546578" border="0" /></a>This large and beautiful Bailer snail (<span style="font-style: italic;">Melo melo</span>) is among those listed among Singapore's threatened animals and is now only sighted on a few of our shores.</span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-43996336996913714332008-07-28T09:00:00.002+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.227+08:00Our cool clams!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/463583890_a768c27009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 245px; height: 180px;" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/463583890_a768c27009.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Clams may seem boring but we have some pretty cool ones, like this heart-cockle that is sometimes seen.<br /><br />Clams or bivalves are commonly seen on our shores. Sandy and muddy shores are particularly rich in buried bivalves. On rocky shores, oysters are permanently stuck to hard surfaces. While on reefs, magnificent giant clams may be seen.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">What are bivalves?</span> Bivalves are molluscs (Phylum Mollusca) that belong to Class Bivalvia. Bivalves include clams, mussels and oysters. 'Bivalve' means 'two valves'. Actually, a bivalve has one shell. It is more correct to say that it has a two-part shell, i.e., one shell made up of two parts. Each part of the shell is called a valve.<br /><br />The valves are connected by a hinge and kept shut by one or two large muscles (called adductor muscles). When the bivalve relaxes its adductor muscles, a springy ligament causes the two valves to open. For some of our favourite seafood such as scallops, it is the adductor muscles that we eat and not the body of the animal. These muscles taste sweet because of the proteins found there.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Life in the slow lane:</span> Bivalves are mostly sedentary and don't move about as much as snails. Many are adapted to live buried in soft sea bottoms, some live permanently attached to a hard surface. Being mostly immobile, peaceful filter-feeders, most bivalves don't have a head or a radula. Burrowing bivalves have a flattened, blade-like foot to burrow with. Oysters that stick to hard surfaces don't even have a foot.<br /><br />Some bivalves like scallops, however, can 'swim' for a short distance by clapping their shells together.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIP445fTMkVxg_76zxhMc6VKLTQl3zLVe9aqnDPbVha5vXRa_LKF8x0aZ4q1N0N-G2wS4lTHg2-eSiuFbujXUTmbR9ooTHaU-40-_T1VaBaPDo5xVWxPy1iFpt5IJbHctR8q6IIeM1mPA/s1600-h/scallop.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIP445fTMkVxg_76zxhMc6VKLTQl3zLVe9aqnDPbVha5vXRa_LKF8x0aZ4q1N0N-G2wS4lTHg2-eSiuFbujXUTmbR9ooTHaU-40-_T1VaBaPDo5xVWxPy1iFpt5IJbHctR8q6IIeM1mPA/s400/scallop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227695919742391218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sanctuary in the sand:</span> Most bivalves bury themselves. Here they are safer from predators and keep cool and moist during low tide. They use their foot to burrow, then stick out two siphons to the surface. Water is sucked in through one siphon, and ejected through the other.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuePHGkm2uVEBokw3hmMAb_bYikx8KVYGX6jHIOWP-6g-tjBHk5cJ29UHKWQpIh3kiMQ_jvGXkobs_v-7S7LCpbRCFiUzHtHCFFqizpexKkXoQEToBo3GEY4MaUTBScQ_mPUD0PL4tTds/s1600-h/bivalves.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuePHGkm2uVEBokw3hmMAb_bYikx8KVYGX6jHIOWP-6g-tjBHk5cJ29UHKWQpIh3kiMQ_jvGXkobs_v-7S7LCpbRCFiUzHtHCFFqizpexKkXoQEToBo3GEY4MaUTBScQ_mPUD0PL4tTds/s400/bivalves.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693358492073426" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">How do they dig in?</span> A bivalve has only one foot and no other limbs. Yet, it can dig into the sand, and some can do it very rapidly indeed! To dig in, the fleshy foot sticks out between the valves. The end of the foot is then expanded into a bulbous shape to form an anchor in the sand or mud. Water is then expelled from between the valves to loosen the sand and mud and the bivalve then quickly contracts its foot to pull itself deeper in. It does this repeatedly until it is at a comfortable depth. Different bivalves bury themselves to different depths. Those with more streamlined shapes dig deeper.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_Ij_GL-YoaCEb-UHxaUkDzIYCMGpAQXQYFBjDLC4sIU_2ZPgNVbuRiSf5gpyESy6vUgxY5v1wIqKa6KLnbyWUqIM97BY7CyhKY1k6-tl7E1hTDNjq2ctdbgutF54ZWEPtOFDy50SzQ0/s1600-h/razor.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_Ij_GL-YoaCEb-UHxaUkDzIYCMGpAQXQYFBjDLC4sIU_2ZPgNVbuRiSf5gpyESy6vUgxY5v1wIqKa6KLnbyWUqIM97BY7CyhKY1k6-tl7E1hTDNjq2ctdbgutF54ZWEPtOFDy50SzQ0/s400/razor.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693213614438098" border="0" /></a>Here is a razor clam digging in with its white muscular foot. The banded tube at the other end is the siphon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hanging by a thread: </span>Many bivalves secrete byssus threads, strong protein fibres that can be used to cement themselves to hard surfaces and supports. Burying bivalves may use byssus threads to literally root themselves to the surrounding sand or small stones. The thread is produced by a gland near the foot. The foot gets a grip of the surface and the secretion from the gland flows along a groove in the foot. When the secretion hardens on contact with sea water, the foot is withdrawn.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0vlPXuPHDcpvFY0N5HK1PA-m1G1dQfSX-MFx5LWFzNUIU2Ta4carDaJOQyR8F1ug1zMFLnhbx7-h0PMupjpm0Ka_nYRCQXV8TM2JLThhpEATLdolYdQicNj40RSG5YAOVI7qji2aFknc/s1600-h/fanshell.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0vlPXuPHDcpvFY0N5HK1PA-m1G1dQfSX-MFx5LWFzNUIU2Ta4carDaJOQyR8F1ug1zMFLnhbx7-h0PMupjpm0Ka_nYRCQXV8TM2JLThhpEATLdolYdQicNj40RSG5YAOVI7qji2aFknc/s400/fanshell.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693208218429970" border="0" /></a>This large fan shell (Family Pinnidae) usually lies buried in the sand with the pointed end below. Here you can see the byssus thread that form on the pointed end to help anchor the animal in the sand.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQNzWUIWQo1TGMfM-jQgjiRv05IInB1nMlapYpIhwrP70AKZkzsiMRqdL-W01UiHocblfFd7_xPPjwIIHROCAHG-wJPBB1T6oaj3qDVymIZDCIyYLRrdyZXIKsQmxfJDgpWclDtCZIC0/s1600-h/stuck.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQNzWUIWQo1TGMfM-jQgjiRv05IInB1nMlapYpIhwrP70AKZkzsiMRqdL-W01UiHocblfFd7_xPPjwIIHROCAHG-wJPBB1T6oaj3qDVymIZDCIyYLRrdyZXIKsQmxfJDgpWclDtCZIC0/s400/stuck.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693358938564514" border="0" /></a>The jingle shell clam (Family Anomiidae) usually settles under stones. It has a two part shell, with an opening on the part that is against the stone, through which the byssus threads emerge to cling to the stone.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bizarre Bivalves: </span>Bivalves come in a vast array of shapes and forms. Some like Nest mussels, are 1cm long or less but can form vast 'nests'. The photo on the left is the nests formed on Chek Jawa covering metres of shore.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IKw0agXHk2uVhW6KDXWnUxYs0Y7_rNlPm-LLCRp9cAx05tZG0UWmtD8-0j-gdMqDOoMYh42ez1calr5li1DQmnH_nHTr3Le2ha0Iqjy6kbQkIxUcN5hIxEN3VC42HbNkO4Fm4_Qp7Dk/s1600-h/nestmussel.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3IKw0agXHk2uVhW6KDXWnUxYs0Y7_rNlPm-LLCRp9cAx05tZG0UWmtD8-0j-gdMqDOoMYh42ez1calr5li1DQmnH_nHTr3Le2ha0Iqjy6kbQkIxUcN5hIxEN3VC42HbNkO4Fm4_Qp7Dk/s400/nestmussel.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693207275946546" border="0" /></a>Yet others like the Giant clam (Family Tridacnidae) are enormous and can reach nearly half a metre in length.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6c5N3mU0JvEY0Aq4p6Qa8-3_90-g-BRKBAkjBPdMTgXRsBWvdGiyPNzydrKlXzTWqkYQavZ0zsHkKnDQcNfTHAWC3IRppHgF5EHLHChrP2ds5C0kzrmS4ZrzV6o-YQAGZQRjUACCv2Zc/s1600-h/giantclams.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6c5N3mU0JvEY0Aq4p6Qa8-3_90-g-BRKBAkjBPdMTgXRsBWvdGiyPNzydrKlXzTWqkYQavZ0zsHkKnDQcNfTHAWC3IRppHgF5EHLHChrP2ds5C0kzrmS4ZrzV6o-YQAGZQRjUACCv2Zc/s400/giantclams.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693206777044402" border="0" /></a>Giant clams are among the largest bivalves to have ever existed on our planet! The two-part shell is thick and usually has a wavy opening that never closes completely. Unlike most other bivalves, the giant clam harbours symbiotic zooxanthallae (a kind of single-celled algae) in its fleshy body. The zooxanthalae produce food through photosynthesis. To maximise its "farm", the clam exposes these alga to the sunlight by facing the shell opening (and thus the body containing the algae) to sunlight.<br /><br />Bivalves are among our favourite seafood. These include Ark clams (better known as 'see ham'), Oysters, Green mussels, Venus clams and tragically, even the large, beautiful Giant clams.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2WowKtqZsUhH564TrBcNuktM82E0n29UAXrEWfCey7l8HmO3WCaipBaUYQWzpaYO8LwCDHVgfvH-bpkTe6D_f59klxKk9glmPUZeNvEwcqgu9zYCSuG07i9sNVbryw8Y7x0kMWNs-WWQ/s1600-h/edible.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2WowKtqZsUhH564TrBcNuktM82E0n29UAXrEWfCey7l8HmO3WCaipBaUYQWzpaYO8LwCDHVgfvH-bpkTe6D_f59klxKk9glmPUZeNvEwcqgu9zYCSuG07i9sNVbryw8Y7x0kMWNs-WWQ/s400/edible.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5227693203672366546" border="0" /></a> Although all molluscs can produce pearls, pearls used commercially come mostly from farmed and not wild bivalves. Please don't vandalise our wild clams in the vain hope of finding valuable pearls.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Calamity Clam:</span> Bivalves that are ordinarily safe to eat can at some seaons be highly poisonous to eat. This happens during a red tide or harmful algal bloom. Filter-feeding animals such as bivalves concentrate the toxins produced by these organisms. The toxins do not harm the bivalves, but can be fatal to humans and other animals such as otters that eat the bivalves. The toxins are not destroyed by cooking. At other times, filter feeding bivalves may also concentrate other unpleasant chemicals and bacteria which could make you ill.<br /><br />Sadly, many of our beautiful and fascinating bivalves are listed among the threatened animals of Singapore. Like other marine creatures, they are vulnerable to habitat loss due to reclamation or human activities along the coast that pollute the water. They are also vulnerable to trampling by careless visitors and over-collection for food and for their shells can affect local populations.</span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-23618685454155752192008-07-23T15:00:00.005+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.228+08:00Outreach for our reefs and other low tide happenings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7ha-9CkHlQ6gtZRDERkCchOtW8MMiDxMHiWN38r3FUg5wQSWqAqhuPW1haCO4aStFGznn7ZHzqfHUEUucrangswhz7tbqE-BNA80vHfPFg6yKrhWndHvfNdbFRKafn_lPTdLasRcaJA/s1600-h/cyrene+button+72dpi.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; float: right; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib7ha-9CkHlQ6gtZRDERkCchOtW8MMiDxMHiWN38r3FUg5wQSWqAqhuPW1haCO4aStFGznn7ZHzqfHUEUucrangswhz7tbqE-BNA80vHfPFg6yKrhWndHvfNdbFRKafn_lPTdLasRcaJA/s400/cyrene+button+72dpi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225799247815742498" border="0" /></a>This low tide period, the "I've been to Cyrene" button was launched and will be given to all those <a href="http://leafmonkey.blogspot.com/2008/05/lets-go-to-cyrene-reef-blogging-contest.html">who go to Cyrene Reef</a> and survive!<br /><br />Amazing marine life were encountered during this period, with many first sightings by regular shore explorers.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/sisters-survey-19-july-2008/">The Bumphead bannerfish (<span style="font-style: italic;">Heniochus varias</span>)</a> was sighted during a reef survey of the Sisters Islands by the Blue Water Volunteers. Jeff shares these comments about the fish "When I first saw this fish, I couldn't believe my eyes! First time I have seen this in Singapore, and possibly a new record too! "<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu8lr6xWtoEtjQoJ79OcONsIcD0UaLli93VCRnKs_ggbaw8u0YG0n7xLUpn1AETJRmWl00p68F9mMqSY1u1u8I6OxbYBKFt2p_4H082wV7-dDekA-318wL0SyJd1zMTOk7o5djxLc49vQ/s1600-h/2681423987_ddd31ebbb9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu8lr6xWtoEtjQoJ79OcONsIcD0UaLli93VCRnKs_ggbaw8u0YG0n7xLUpn1AETJRmWl00p68F9mMqSY1u1u8I6OxbYBKFt2p_4H082wV7-dDekA-318wL0SyJd1zMTOk7o5djxLc49vQ/s400/2681423987_ddd31ebbb9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226084143707340050" border="0" /></a>With <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/07/reef-survey-sisters-island.html">more encounters</a> on this trip on the colourful clouds blog.<br /><br />Two <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/chek-jawa-with-teamseagrass.html">blue Knobbly sea stars</a> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Protoreaster nodosus</span>) were spotted at Chek Jawa during a TeamSeagrass sesssion.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudnQ1b16OIAdC5d86DENpomdEsJU3utj0qO4ecEl_I1uU7U_qiTzXqE4xZdSrb9UhXRpXPIbOdq79qvPhYXkCu2ITiGsiV9-BDcblnJfO4rpSh3JsbQyliP-NblW3e76ODu-T57fL8c8/s1600-h/080720cjd8055m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhudnQ1b16OIAdC5d86DENpomdEsJU3utj0qO4ecEl_I1uU7U_qiTzXqE4xZdSrb9UhXRpXPIbOdq79qvPhYXkCu2ITiGsiV9-BDcblnJfO4rpSh3JsbQyliP-NblW3e76ODu-T57fL8c8/s400/080720cjd8055m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225096977679058930" border="0" /></a>This <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/cyrene-walk-with-ura.html">strange sea cucumber</a> was spotted at Cyrene Reef which none of the regulars have seen before.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbAAz9sWH0WgeArAG3UGgBoEloBL8j8RxXrKlcajnlDMii8QVHRU0Umj4Jc1F-ZWGa9AQ4uwZmanLrLHKGqpYHSm8fLbD7QavfEUOSbiC2Dz_dfWsL9FvCLNXMOzmaTUxe0RhLRXZnkw/s1600-h/DSC_8153m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizbAAz9sWH0WgeArAG3UGgBoEloBL8j8RxXrKlcajnlDMii8QVHRU0Umj4Jc1F-ZWGa9AQ4uwZmanLrLHKGqpYHSm8fLbD7QavfEUOSbiC2Dz_dfWsL9FvCLNXMOzmaTUxe0RhLRXZnkw/s400/DSC_8153m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225329223331611106" border="0" /></a>Another first for the regulars was this <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/another-cyrene-walk.html">beautiful cowrie</a> spotted at Cyrene Reef.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZmaeVQMg76wnJTAZRH8jETN62QSso4yt_IqGCIO-MoxVCHQOtfm-PkRdyBxek3VFpYlCf-rrT7CKvvUBdTDmRLebVKhnOtQLq3-ChgSs33_HBiGOPWE8ZpNEbMAXDF6drxDeanAFxng/s1600-h/DSC_8275m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZmaeVQMg76wnJTAZRH8jETN62QSso4yt_IqGCIO-MoxVCHQOtfm-PkRdyBxek3VFpYlCf-rrT7CKvvUBdTDmRLebVKhnOtQLq3-ChgSs33_HBiGOPWE8ZpNEbMAXDF6drxDeanAFxng/s400/DSC_8275m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225784071117393906" border="0" /></a><br />This period, there was a lot of outreach efforts, with volunteers bringing decision-makers to see our shores. As well as documentation efforts to learn more about our shores, and efforts to clean up our shores.<br /><br />The Naked Hermit Crabs also conducted a walk for staff from the Singapore Land Authority, <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/07/chek-jawa-boardwalk-with-sla-12-july.html">SLA at the Chek Jawa Boardwalk</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6yPEKaHOx75jk4Xg3mcLHCOH-01nvciBgVI1QNBV_Qo7mXVSa96EQPfiWGribyvxpVLaZzMbs4MK3zdHq9eBtUv-Osof5piKalnCbsdWJVEIJkRmra6eCp7s-B_rudouSiUiVVmK1jgM/s1600-h/pic8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6yPEKaHOx75jk4Xg3mcLHCOH-01nvciBgVI1QNBV_Qo7mXVSa96EQPfiWGribyvxpVLaZzMbs4MK3zdHq9eBtUv-Osof5piKalnCbsdWJVEIJkRmra6eCp7s-B_rudouSiUiVVmK1jgM/s400/pic8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226095990087377954" border="0" /></a>The Naked Hermit Crabs and friends introduced an intrepid team from the Urban Redevelopment Authority, <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/cyrene-walk-with-ura.html">URA to Cyrene Reef</a>. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_nEepfVhz_vxNsvE1hIjQgbOA8e7mZXfBbFy7Bs_ctHnPfoSjmYwjmRc9jQVYcBz8-LEMtSPzFPdYHW3yC8rKCY1EvaNOp9I6waMKzwdLRXxU3jr4EyIPdBDbjgt_rbVQDGtZkJgRDw/s1600-h/DSC_8132m3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp_nEepfVhz_vxNsvE1hIjQgbOA8e7mZXfBbFy7Bs_ctHnPfoSjmYwjmRc9jQVYcBz8-LEMtSPzFPdYHW3yC8rKCY1EvaNOp9I6waMKzwdLRXxU3jr4EyIPdBDbjgt_rbVQDGtZkJgRDw/s400/DSC_8132m3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225330396211374754" border="0" /></a>Another group of first time visitors visited Cyrene again <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/another-cyrene-walk.html">the following day</a>. And Siva shares<a href="http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=1273036713933702553&hl=en"> a video clip of the landing</a> on this reef.<br /><br /><a href="http://coastalcleanup.wordpress.com/2008/07/19/lim-chu-kang-mangrove-cleanup-wmiss-earth-singapore-2008/">International Coastal Cleanup Singapore</a> was out at Lim Chu Kang mangroves with Miss Earth Singapore! <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0gaB7-cl2UegTOwWjV0rwtL-hV0hy_Sd4K8y0UY3SOSHFEV-sqyHz487Rp_5yfpY-WBEfwpgi8_z1YgJx79uO8dDiwf5jotQTb9Z3ff9WYJR9gi4yCLVGulVRm6sVdjMLLbMqWHewFU/s1600-h/111lim_chu_kang-cleanup-19jul2008.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0gaB7-cl2UegTOwWjV0rwtL-hV0hy_Sd4K8y0UY3SOSHFEV-sqyHz487Rp_5yfpY-WBEfwpgi8_z1YgJx79uO8dDiwf5jotQTb9Z3ff9WYJR9gi4yCLVGulVRm6sVdjMLLbMqWHewFU/s400/111lim_chu_kang-cleanup-19jul2008.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226084141579909106" border="0" /></a>More photos of the <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/07/coastal-cleanup-at-lim-chu-kang.html">beauties in boot(ies)</a> on the Annotated Budak blog.<br /><br />Updates on reef surveys at <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/coral-cover-at-kusu-31-may-08/">Kusu Island</a> and <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/166/">Pulau Semakau</a> were released by the Blue Water Volunteers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQc4coJTPXo6mNwxmb5IwTTfEXohc_YovbulK62LhHaCEKEffEOqbdjtxHZQros-liWpDqqpAlYQReodCfd3pygpOP2VSWV7UNRM7KfovgMgxZmZxEXIKpxrNSJUmCc-ifvDEbHbu9Uy0/s1600-h/2655389748_5c36ec67c6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQc4coJTPXo6mNwxmb5IwTTfEXohc_YovbulK62LhHaCEKEffEOqbdjtxHZQros-liWpDqqpAlYQReodCfd3pygpOP2VSWV7UNRM7KfovgMgxZmZxEXIKpxrNSJUmCc-ifvDEbHbu9Uy0/s400/2655389748_5c36ec67c6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226095992217965922" border="0" /></a>While TeamSeagrass was out monitoring our marine meadows in the wee hours of the morning on <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/07/sentosa-19-jul-08.html">Sentosa</a> and <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/chek-jawa-with-teamseagrass.html">Chek Jawa</a>. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTA5CuUwfK0_k4qOihLx-umXz9Imyi4s-BlATcuE73oaDQSOnwWGWmZAbiOeDC7QAVyWjZO64_sGQyQaaIac8VsZ4MW_gMjOV6WAgz4v7xJSMvN9iwdWbK8-hASK5FXzT2VlAtrNPVh5KR/s1600-h/080719sntd0019m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTA5CuUwfK0_k4qOihLx-umXz9Imyi4s-BlATcuE73oaDQSOnwWGWmZAbiOeDC7QAVyWjZO64_sGQyQaaIac8VsZ4MW_gMjOV6WAgz4v7xJSMvN9iwdWbK8-hASK5FXzT2VlAtrNPVh5KR/s400/080719sntd0019m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224665908823881442" border="0" /></a>And the young seagrassers of RGS were out at <a href="http://labradorpark.wordpress.com/2008/07/14/170708-seagrass-monitoring/">Labrador</a>.<br /><br />N. Sivasothi and Ria Tan also shared about our reefs and shores at the <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/sharing-cyrene-at-reel-revolution.html">Reel Revolution event</a> to encourage young filmakers to feature our social issues. As a result, young filmakers visited <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/another-cyrene-walk.html">Cyrene Reef.</a><br /><br />One person CAN make a difference for our reefs and shores. Here's <a href="http://iyor08singapore.blogspot.com/2007/11/you-can-make-difference-for-our-reefs_10.html">more about how you can</a>.<br /><br />More blog entries about trips to our shores during this last series of low tides<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/chek-jawa">Chek Jawa</a></span></span></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/cyrene">Cyrene Reefs</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sekudu">Pulau Sekudu</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sentosa">Sentosa</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sisters">Sisters Islands</a></span></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-50142997811658217132008-07-10T11:22:00.001+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.229+08:00Northern Stars of Singapore and other low tide highlights<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfz7IZEBvj3NqVea60DSKsU9DeH8H5GVYP2XKgjkYgrE6WKX18RxBm4FBdRA4ax1q1cYi59PSV2u2igLtJumMmwq2ZugS5c__RelIviwGJHOSqCOOWCNr7WVfx6Axf-kXv9Ld0phEKFI/s1600-h/DSC_6634m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 242px; height: 177px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfz7IZEBvj3NqVea60DSKsU9DeH8H5GVYP2XKgjkYgrE6WKX18RxBm4FBdRA4ax1q1cYi59PSV2u2igLtJumMmwq2ZugS5c__RelIviwGJHOSqCOOWCNr7WVfx6Axf-kXv9Ld0phEKFI/s400/DSC_6634m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220535792026698322" border="0" /></a>Another series of morning super low tides has just ended.<br /><br />And what amazing sights were shared by intrepid explorers during these brief glimpses of our shores.<br /><br />Among the encounters were our amazing sea stars of our Northern shores! As well as other special sightings.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />The Changi shores are surprisingly rich in <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/07/discovery-changi-beach-on-4-july-2008.html">numbers and varieties of sea stars</a>! Not only large adults, but also tiny juveniles.<br /><br />The more commonly encountered species on Changi include the Sand star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Astropecten </span>sp.), Cake sea star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Anthenea aspera</span>), Biscuit sea star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Goniodiscaster scaber</span>) and Rock star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Asterina </span>sp.). Further up north at Pulau Sekudu, the Knobbly sea stars (<span style="font-style: italic;">Protoreaster nodosus</span>) are still present.<br /><br />Less commonly encountered usually, but seen in numbers during these trips was <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/very-special-reef-bb.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">Gynmanthenea laevis</span></a>. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPCz0mRq4AN-xCqCH_iw8JiqF3Yo5x2Ypz_jHW4S7lo6osUfJcj8W9p2PEZ2Hy1KrL50XGdDqS71EIjAnw-P1hCbSdCUlE9MDpDcmhjCepHv4MDaZrFj82pSJJjquYziITTKp7o4zd46s/s1600-h/bb050708p26.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPCz0mRq4AN-xCqCH_iw8JiqF3Yo5x2Ypz_jHW4S7lo6osUfJcj8W9p2PEZ2Hy1KrL50XGdDqS71EIjAnw-P1hCbSdCUlE9MDpDcmhjCepHv4MDaZrFj82pSJJjquYziITTKp7o4zd46s/s400/bb050708p26.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220539247191468946" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Special stars</span><br /><br />Some special sea stars include this Scaly sea star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Nepanthia</span> sp.) at <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/stars-delight-at-changi.html">Changi</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KFr3volB17ds5jbcTSSdih0WtlX7u-KxGHItKIS0SlUm7NDHFIN5hCw1hzyYGf1K5EluA_78bkRsAJE30ttUAAABKbmdYswF7n49R76hpCgA9-KuA9-UwLdKDty_jS7oKUupCIKjwU4/s1600-h/chg030708p11.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KFr3volB17ds5jbcTSSdih0WtlX7u-KxGHItKIS0SlUm7NDHFIN5hCw1hzyYGf1K5EluA_78bkRsAJE30ttUAAABKbmdYswF7n49R76hpCgA9-KuA9-UwLdKDty_jS7oKUupCIKjwU4/s400/chg030708p11.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220537777826927778" border="0" /></a>And a very special star <a href="http://ramblingsofapeculiarnature.blogspot.com/2008/07/bb-delights.html">found by Sam</a>, is this beautiful pale blue star which is likely to be <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/very-special-reef-bb.html"><em>Craspidaster hesperus</em></a>. A first sighting for the intertidal explorers!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHV2FCy3F3X9CSPfbD35DwCj3XgrgHGsUhEmdEjctPfeMwANWo3CYssIASVSqTBrN9QOxQcZPBB0KU1X-lbj5GHnIPw1Jr1G1o6BE4ZHJCJcDI5PtrVxeSlM9-onc_xNDikTMI_O5Jcs/s1600-h/bb050708p31.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHV2FCy3F3X9CSPfbD35DwCj3XgrgHGsUhEmdEjctPfeMwANWo3CYssIASVSqTBrN9QOxQcZPBB0KU1X-lbj5GHnIPw1Jr1G1o6BE4ZHJCJcDI5PtrVxeSlM9-onc_xNDikTMI_O5Jcs/s400/bb050708p31.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220539245864564978" border="0" /></a>And a <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/07/best-changi-experience-part-ii.html">little green star on Changi</a>! Its identity has yet to be ascertained.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66WrlHbdFtoLZ4OXtMTChoA-q5reI0xnNqLmFRiABNPxOaqSBt7HbwA3r5XV8jPwzDTCYVMTNUfih0wtnQOdq9W7zMt0IXOcsjbRVpSg7UgbS6Guj4AG1LAP3tsYIxlNc8fTmGF6FA6E/s1600-h/Changi7060820.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66WrlHbdFtoLZ4OXtMTChoA-q5reI0xnNqLmFRiABNPxOaqSBt7HbwA3r5XV8jPwzDTCYVMTNUfih0wtnQOdq9W7zMt0IXOcsjbRVpSg7UgbS6Guj4AG1LAP3tsYIxlNc8fTmGF6FA6E/s400/Changi7060820.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220541895910445170" border="0" /></a>There was even a baby Knobbly sea star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Protoreaster nodosus</span>) <a href="http://uforest.blogspot.com/2008/07/changi.html">sighted on Changi</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHx3pmVTFrKWtMBjMlZnOr7gPcv6LyWB3ORmtueFLXRwYUaQuNgwxfoloSImjT7oR2UEG5ihUsm6Q8F0NzYZXAxQq6Oz8osW0mkkJiNoXiiwBj34NhSRD723_SxNPqO_8EDGvCbfy4UTQ/s1600-h/Baby.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHx3pmVTFrKWtMBjMlZnOr7gPcv6LyWB3ORmtueFLXRwYUaQuNgwxfoloSImjT7oR2UEG5ihUsm6Q8F0NzYZXAxQq6Oz8osW0mkkJiNoXiiwBj34NhSRD723_SxNPqO_8EDGvCbfy4UTQ/s400/Baby.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220543056179776562" border="0" /></a>Adult Knobbly sea stars were seen on <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/back-to-sekudu-after-year.html">Pulau Sekudu</a>!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaalMPvetjc6rUzfQuwk3XeYx8x-4sw0xfz7nmQG9GwuxdXYgNLUoEEbiKp1QFztSA3abqnYc9xAR7V4j_g4P5v87ancSPoZPpye8N0MBWHmdCJX_IVhRiJV53iXNRpxHngoiOjH9YmPY/s1600-h/040708p11.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaalMPvetjc6rUzfQuwk3XeYx8x-4sw0xfz7nmQG9GwuxdXYgNLUoEEbiKp1QFztSA3abqnYc9xAR7V4j_g4P5v87ancSPoZPpye8N0MBWHmdCJX_IVhRiJV53iXNRpxHngoiOjH9YmPY/s400/040708p11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221254126356770626" border="0" /></a>As well as at<a href="http://ramblingsofapeculiarnature.blogspot.com/2008/07/bb-delights.html"> Beting Bronok</a>, <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/07/semakau-inter-tidal-walk-on-5-july-2008.html">Pulau Semakau</a> and of course, <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/cyrene-critters.html">Cyrene Reefs</a> probably the only Singapore shore where baby Knobblies are abundant!<br /><br />Our shores are very much alive! And we can only be aware of our special stars and other marine life by visiting our shores. And sharing about them.<br /><br />The most commonly encountered sea star on our Northern shore is probably the Sand star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Astropecten</span> sp.). They are found even <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/07/pasir-ris-some-mysterious-finds.html">on Pasir Ris</a> in huge numbers, as well as at <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/stars-delight-at-changi.html">Changi</a>, <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/back-to-sekudu-after-year.html">Pulau Sekudu</a> and <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/very-special-reef-bb.html">Beting Bronok</a>. For some unknown reason, they have not been seen on our Southern shores.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNTRr1sLkbb5xVKzATkSbl3x7LIHyBsugEPWiBiob9DvJVfVX4Y8fsNY8OLAG6ny9kgIB1tZmeayJt_6ouGlVjN_tpgl_gsFaYi1M67Sux8-Ui3mJct8aBZ6LP_jgGYL9n0aETQqMKFU/s1600-h/DSC_6358m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNTRr1sLkbb5xVKzATkSbl3x7LIHyBsugEPWiBiob9DvJVfVX4Y8fsNY8OLAG6ny9kgIB1tZmeayJt_6ouGlVjN_tpgl_gsFaYi1M67Sux8-Ui3mJct8aBZ6LP_jgGYL9n0aETQqMKFU/s400/DSC_6358m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220544319908215186" border="0" /></a>Unfortunately, the Common sea star (<span style="font-style: italic;">Archaster typicus</span>) is no longer commonly seen. Previously seen on Changi, they are now only common on Chek Jawa and even so, less regularly sighted since the flooding of 2007. Thus we shouldn't take our 'common' marine life for granted.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKD2tEyj2ehV-w-SvrGDq4wJp0zr_UxDFV381V2OnLjS4uN6JIqfYsaem2AW7NUInsYsqhFonjZI1NYnbpTsyhG1GwQLHxT7Ea6DzejoCvya7KrQXRmpSNHsgI1FQCKxpH-DKdLOjvz7Q/s1600-h/P7050001.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKD2tEyj2ehV-w-SvrGDq4wJp0zr_UxDFV381V2OnLjS4uN6JIqfYsaem2AW7NUInsYsqhFonjZI1NYnbpTsyhG1GwQLHxT7Ea6DzejoCvya7KrQXRmpSNHsgI1FQCKxpH-DKdLOjvz7Q/s400/P7050001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221214949958466338" border="0" /></a>This photo of Common sea stars was taken on <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/07/semakau-inter-tidal-walk-on-5-july-2008.html">Pulau Semakau</a>. The Common sea star can still retain its common name as it continues to be the most widely distributed sea star commonly seen on some of our shores both in the North and South.<br /><br />Although not a sea star, this pink sand dollar is a relative of the sea star. It was another amazing first time sighting for this series of visits!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrW0R-Bd-ey_ys-E1E2gu09x8lyR6DZKwDj3HA-4lYHiTs0N9Pvr4y_zPdQBcqGftcwY1Q1MSy6WGuRDd8Ia3_B08ii7ilY9aaqSPSM1HwpAZvl2rtD1oBCktkX6w77sbBDhZQ1gLxCc/s1600-h/DSC_6789m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWrW0R-Bd-ey_ys-E1E2gu09x8lyR6DZKwDj3HA-4lYHiTs0N9Pvr4y_zPdQBcqGftcwY1Q1MSy6WGuRDd8Ia3_B08ii7ilY9aaqSPSM1HwpAZvl2rtD1oBCktkX6w77sbBDhZQ1gLxCc/s400/DSC_6789m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219146614494289410" border="0" /></a>This might be <span style="font-style: italic;">Peronella lesueuri</span> which is listed in Dr Lane's book (Lane, David J.W. and Didier Vandenspiegel. 2003. A Guide to Sea Stars and Other Echinoderms of Singapore. Singapore Science Centre. 187pp.) According to the Guide: "This species is not common in Singapore waters. In recent years, it has been dredged only south of the mainland and then only occasionally."<br /><br />Another stunning first time encounter this series of trips was Nemo of the North at Pulau Sekudu! This island is now part of the Chek Jawa Wetlands and <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/03/in-news-controls-over-illegal-landings.html">requires a permit to visit</a>. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_7fC8OEdri8WdrIWhZGqxG0LgfAbBzKJuPEz8Cg9GNfBFYtBA3ms98ois_wNtUnII8lLllfvKdge2u0jSiH_vVQcoJ3jUlD58cDRPXLIWSmLITIXy3NZ7xnXxxYsd2cgnXqZ8GX4d8U/s1600-h/DSC_6816m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_7fC8OEdri8WdrIWhZGqxG0LgfAbBzKJuPEz8Cg9GNfBFYtBA3ms98ois_wNtUnII8lLllfvKdge2u0jSiH_vVQcoJ3jUlD58cDRPXLIWSmLITIXy3NZ7xnXxxYsd2cgnXqZ8GX4d8U/s400/DSC_6816m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219146621075426098" border="0" /></a>Originally thought not to exist on our Northern shores, it was surprising to find this False clown anemonefish (<span style="font-style: italic;">Amphiprion ocellaris</span>) on Pulau Sekudu!<br /><br />Unfortunately, clown anemonefishes have been harvested from the wild for the aquarium trade. So much so that they may become locally extinct. Here's more about the <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/nemo-no-more.html">situation in Australia</a>. Let's hope this little Nemo and her friends on our other shores are left alone in the wild.<br /><br />Although there were fewer fish traps on the shores <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/05/pulau-sekudu-fish-traps-and-other.html">compared to the last trip</a>, an abandoned driftnet was seen stuck among the rocks.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10Mmczy3JbMvi78RGi7J6-8Th-YxkyUJCxsh3lRmIxFZpOAo6ttJb0U9z6NoWkbNXkxmKuPwdJlp79vu3HhJXvNK_TsBDhw2vHE6EdGceSVbCkBPV-gM3dsHXKtsrh1c_fLxOznXAoJs/s1600-h/DSC_6906m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh10Mmczy3JbMvi78RGi7J6-8Th-YxkyUJCxsh3lRmIxFZpOAo6ttJb0U9z6NoWkbNXkxmKuPwdJlp79vu3HhJXvNK_TsBDhw2vHE6EdGceSVbCkBPV-gM3dsHXKtsrh1c_fLxOznXAoJs/s400/DSC_6906m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219147481701082898" border="0" /></a>A fisherman was seen laying a drift net in the channel between Pulau Sekudu and Chek Jawa. Hopefully, all these dangers will not hurt Nemo and all the marine life on our shores.<br /><br />Outreach events this low tide period included a public walk at Sentosa's natural shores by the <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/07/sentosa-walk-6-july-2008.html">Naked Hermit Crabs</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzwA-vhFUrV6-g_lj7J7nqNMT_gemvv-1CmhTQoqh0hnxWfcUvOjJO8z0z0Fzn5Ov4LQ0ygh84-u2d-5txl19wbt5u7xHL16o_9DaZS4NMVZMGbO1vn_yKSPQI1ukW6QzXFkYujKbtTI/s1600-h/pic8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzwA-vhFUrV6-g_lj7J7nqNMT_gemvv-1CmhTQoqh0hnxWfcUvOjJO8z0z0Fzn5Ov4LQ0ygh84-u2d-5txl19wbt5u7xHL16o_9DaZS4NMVZMGbO1vn_yKSPQI1ukW6QzXFkYujKbtTI/s400/pic8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221215957227986354" border="0" /></a>Everyone had a chance to see hard and soft corals, various nudibranchs and enjoy the natural cliffs and reefs of this tiny part of Sentosa that remains undeveloped.<br /><br />The <a href="http://coastalcleanup.wordpress.com/2008/07/05/organisers-workshop-2008/">International Coastal Cleanup Singapore</a> team also had an organisers' workshop to prepare for the upcoming effort for our shores in September.<br /><br />A round up of the best of the sightings of these trips is on the <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/07/northern-exposures.html">colourful clouds blog</a>, with video clips of some sightings on the <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/07/hairy-crab-hantu.html">sgbeachbum blog</a>.<br /><br />There so much more to learn and share about our amazing natural reefs and shores.<br /><br />More blog entries about trips to our shores during this last series of low tides<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/beting-bronok">Beting Bronok</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/changi">Changi</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/cyrene">Cyrene Reefs</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/hantu">Pulau Hantu</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/pasir%20ris">Pasir Ris</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sekudu">Pulau Sekudu</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/semakau">Pulau Semakau</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sentosa">Sentosa</a><br /></li></ul><br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-36495318805001255672008-07-10T11:00:00.000+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.229+08:00Rare snail surprise<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5JKAqF_CHMsh7H3KIAsChih2fjXwHrIbSUp0ccTRblsIC5g2PQg4kPGUALWi8ImkYZ3sD6cY5Ops6zycySmOlHCBEYwV33BDwnPnUqS1AZyLp5EmGJ9M0Xs1hq3gwhmmnunpuo0DSL0/s1600-h/IMG_0832.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; float: right; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 246px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr5JKAqF_CHMsh7H3KIAsChih2fjXwHrIbSUp0ccTRblsIC5g2PQg4kPGUALWi8ImkYZ3sD6cY5Ops6zycySmOlHCBEYwV33BDwnPnUqS1AZyLp5EmGJ9M0Xs1hq3gwhmmnunpuo0DSL0/s400/IMG_0832.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220539737628813762" border="0" /></a>Among the most magnificent of our rarely seen snails is the large Bailer snail (<span style="font-style: italic;">Melo melo</span>) with a handsome tiger-striped foot and siphon.<br /><br />It is listed among our threatened animals due to habitat loss and over-collection for the cooking pot and its shell.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />From Ng, P. K. L. & Y. C. Wee, 1994. <span style="font-style: italic;">The Singapore Red Data Book: Threatened Plants and Animals of Singapore</span>. The Bailer snail is "thought to have been exterminated from our waters, but a recent isolated sighting confirms their continued presence".<br /><br />Thus it was a delight that TWO were seen on a recent trip to <a href="http://ramblingsofapeculiarnature.blogspot.com/2008/07/bb-delights.html">Beting Bronok</a> a remote northern shore.<br /><br />One was a large adult.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGPGc90Icjxig04prSgdz83s8lFVbCojIH8psS6kzAN2dxzntwJZ5SvE_BUotSaTVXAP8Vn6_vdclKS6SxVITwguu0SHP4arp7L64N5JI78EXqXTjcKI3Equhii3jECTOQt8Hv8jFeq0/s1600-h/IMG_0664.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGPGc90Icjxig04prSgdz83s8lFVbCojIH8psS6kzAN2dxzntwJZ5SvE_BUotSaTVXAP8Vn6_vdclKS6SxVITwguu0SHP4arp7L64N5JI78EXqXTjcKI3Equhii3jECTOQt8Hv8jFeq0/s400/IMG_0664.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220539743112459426" border="0" /></a>Another was a smaller Bailer snail that was <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/07/very-special-reef-bb.html">seen eating</a> another snail. These carnivorous snails do prey on other snails as well as clams.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAvcDmCCGhXFSwpPBrnPBXhBtX5n8FUocKb9_NpvvexF7A7OwOT_xG_Ww8ysDCQN-ZFCuSxwTcFhdGgejzm03XbUVfIH1uzjFCF_zL8KlI6Wyoha7LeFFcM3NbFrsvUjeKphQs9YpOjE/s1600-h/bb050708p09.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAvcDmCCGhXFSwpPBrnPBXhBtX5n8FUocKb9_NpvvexF7A7OwOT_xG_Ww8ysDCQN-ZFCuSxwTcFhdGgejzm03XbUVfIH1uzjFCF_zL8KlI6Wyoha7LeFFcM3NbFrsvUjeKphQs9YpOjE/s400/bb050708p09.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220539249705083218" border="0" /></a>Bailer snails were also <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2007/07/mone-not-enough.html">seen on Changi in the past</a>, unfortunately, being taken away by someone for the cooking past.<br /><br />Thus it was heartening that during <a href="http://mantamola.blogspot.com/2008/07/best-changi-experience.html">this recent trip</a>, someone was seen going onto the tidal flats to RETURN this amazing snail! He also returned the snail on the right, the Noble volute (<span style="font-style: italic;">Cymbiola nobilis</span>).<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikH9CXfG0C1PxcQkXFBv3pfXnBK3iLoZ43Pr8vbsjlh0GdMZznN_oTUBalkfYNQ4kTgeCOSp3Bn-nFz74JaxSMKHlqqbnPukwjyC27qFwse67cYeG3PfFjSkBp5JsczEZ2S4v4T4S_Fak/s1600-h/DSC_7389m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikH9CXfG0C1PxcQkXFBv3pfXnBK3iLoZ43Pr8vbsjlh0GdMZznN_oTUBalkfYNQ4kTgeCOSp3Bn-nFz74JaxSMKHlqqbnPukwjyC27qFwse67cYeG3PfFjSkBp5JsczEZ2S4v4T4S_Fak/s400/DSC_7389m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219875429994997218" border="0" /></a> Both these snails are listed among the threatened animals of Singapore due to habitat loss and over-collection.<br /><br />From Ng, P. K. L. & Y. C. Wee, 1994. <span style="font-style: italic;">The Singapore Red Data Book: Threatened Plants and Animals of Singapore</span>. The Noble volute is "confined to the region, particularly Singapore and southern Peninsular Malaysia, presently uncommon on our reefs although abundant in the past".<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-WEB0MEosnR3ZMkpC-mIwwt8cx50ewOQXECQIyd76PXD_TawFELGY2QAze5rnIVC7DFQ3aMiyzWSXXj3f3Nruj7uC26oPzZC4HEd_SCZfxtqyI1l4HNkv7JngwrrtM6Lbays30EcYmg/s1600-h/DSC_7397m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-WEB0MEosnR3ZMkpC-mIwwt8cx50ewOQXECQIyd76PXD_TawFELGY2QAze5rnIVC7DFQ3aMiyzWSXXj3f3Nruj7uC26oPzZC4HEd_SCZfxtqyI1l4HNkv7JngwrrtM6Lbays30EcYmg/s400/DSC_7397m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219875750138090946" border="0" /></a>The Bailer snail was very much alive, although it seemed a little slow. The Noble volute was perfectly fine. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQpTaUPZCI2URFrAvC2xDHMzA7cE8_sY6SJlSJRjiFyXUXM3trhRrzjE-oIc1-WU9OWRKzU8CR7YiJN7oEYGRUdgqczQkweIPVNAx27_vuQSgHBEqGXja0sGRa3yATxlYTftyuWQcULQ/s1600-h/P7060061m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaQpTaUPZCI2URFrAvC2xDHMzA7cE8_sY6SJlSJRjiFyXUXM3trhRrzjE-oIc1-WU9OWRKzU8CR7YiJN7oEYGRUdgqczQkweIPVNAx27_vuQSgHBEqGXja0sGRa3yATxlYTftyuWQcULQ/s400/P7060061m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219875754027952802" border="0" /></a>After checking on the snails, they were taken far out into the water to release them.<br /><br />Hopefully, they will be safe from collectors.<br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-67895029114401199382008-07-03T08:00:00.000+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.230+08:00Semakau Underwater! and other efforts for our reefs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7kslF3l6uz8UFQl8VDm0VYaQ29ZCDm8Gbznrcun2kaB6OT5sLAiKEFNezKNKMAzZ0hKKr97lkmbuVUatobM6F6j6IZdUlAwlv6q67Ku2PpAXfKJuJzWmx41-2f_3qlBOxFGzWE28gu0/s1600-h/2625122726_e5674c9b9f.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 244px; height: 173px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7kslF3l6uz8UFQl8VDm0VYaQ29ZCDm8Gbznrcun2kaB6OT5sLAiKEFNezKNKMAzZ0hKKr97lkmbuVUatobM6F6j6IZdUlAwlv6q67Ku2PpAXfKJuJzWmx41-2f_3qlBOxFGzWE28gu0/s400/2625122726_e5674c9b9f.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218007384936011842" border="0" /></a>The Blue Water Volunteers recently conducted a ReefFriends survey of Pulau Semakau.<br /><br />Other sightings included a gianormous pufferfish!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br /><a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/semakau-survey-28-jun-2008/">Check out the fabulous photos</a> of our glorious reefs there!<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/">Hantu Bloggers</a> also did a dive at Pulau Hantu last Sunday. Check out their blog for updates on encounters.<br /><br />If you are a diver, make a difference and volunteer to help learn more about our wonderful reefs. Join the <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/">Blue Water Volunteers</a>. Or see them for yourself and go diving with the <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/">Hantu Bloggers</a>.<br /><br />Over the weekend, there was also a flurry of other outreach events.<br /><br />The Naked Hermit Crabs conducted a sell-out <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/06/chek-jawa-public-walk-29-june-2008.html">walk at the Chek Jawa boardwalk</a> for an enthusiastic crowd of 40 people!<br /><br />Here's one of the many kind <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/06/29-june-chek-jawa-our-visitors-say.html">comments left in the Guestbook</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzxZXRa9cper-FAK0Pe0Ifn7xkWJOALaPxRwv4KYnpD31Mcwu_YsG9N4Tg-qNwb8G1dhL5NsCvFoXEqV2R4UpjFQjPHJKj-KhOEbWGkFLphrQdBL3abPNIYf9coUtjf1xfmkxNcqns8o/s1600-h/3Scan08-06-30.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjzxZXRa9cper-FAK0Pe0Ifn7xkWJOALaPxRwv4KYnpD31Mcwu_YsG9N4Tg-qNwb8G1dhL5NsCvFoXEqV2R4UpjFQjPHJKj-KhOEbWGkFLphrQdBL3abPNIYf9coUtjf1xfmkxNcqns8o/s400/3Scan08-06-30.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218009060584906562" border="0" /></a>Many marine groups were also at EnviroFest to share about our shores, manning booths and giving talks. More about the happenings there on the wildfilms blog <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/envirofest-2008-day-1.html">Day 1</a> and <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/envirofest-2008-day-2.html">Day 2</a>; and on the <a href="http://www.pulauhantu.org/envirofest08/">Hantu Blog</a> as well as on the <a href="http://habitatnews.nus.edu.sg/index.php?entry=/events/20080628-earthfest-day01.txt">habitatnews blog</a> featuring the baby dugong at the Toddycats booth.<br /><br />Don't want to miss out on any reef and other wild activities? Check out the <a href="http://wildsingaporehappenings.blogspot.com/">wildhappenings blog</a> which email subscription and rss feed for weekly alerts on upcoming events.<br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-25009655074713455452008-06-24T23:00:00.004+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.231+08:00Frogfish and other low tide highlights<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMPcaShxdFTvRwjQODafc4AFVOAeK4Yz708NI9fO9474gB_1VQrQwaWNlXtnrYL9degY-jNKQ_fy2vg-poUEJFdH11stMbHKsw0_379ccCsID8w1gmu0-lInR9xKwrQWgyKqAjY631NfQ/s1600-h/DSC_5686m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMPcaShxdFTvRwjQODafc4AFVOAeK4Yz708NI9fO9474gB_1VQrQwaWNlXtnrYL9degY-jNKQ_fy2vg-poUEJFdH11stMbHKsw0_379ccCsID8w1gmu0-lInR9xKwrQWgyKqAjY631NfQ/s400/DSC_5686m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213416238852379730" border="0" /></a>Another low tide and yet more amazing discoveries are made on our shores! From fat frogfishes, sublime seahorses, a rare sea snail and unknown sea anemone, to encounters with a humungous number of baby Knobbly sea stars.<br /><br />Here's some of the adventures on our shores this past week.<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Changi was much explored during this series of low tide. As usual, this long shore with a wide variety of habitats didn't fail to amaze. The frogfish was a surprise encounter as it's more commonly seen on our southern shores. It was large and as usual, had a rather unhappy expression.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYk_DJA7-cijvxLnACFkYccpE_5MJiFn4O8FlXXahIxaL77YX1FwEgbR9r8yjoYolZS3U_mmXE29KFXzLKK0ELT86O4RoMeqrUQAeAvlMmVH0L0mlbcSwFwyVtGkXGgvlduDludQZb10/s1600-h/P1180250.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYk_DJA7-cijvxLnACFkYccpE_5MJiFn4O8FlXXahIxaL77YX1FwEgbR9r8yjoYolZS3U_mmXE29KFXzLKK0ELT86O4RoMeqrUQAeAvlMmVH0L0mlbcSwFwyVtGkXGgvlduDludQZb10/s400/P1180250.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215462796045553522" border="0" /></a>Changi's shores are simply crowded with life, from seahorses to peacock anemones and wide <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/stars-at-changi.html">variety of sea stars</a> and sea cucumbers.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5wi0OmdEniXslSwweJ7CsllzM4awmpWLE-zdpmP_qyOsScX5_gDcvl4y5iI7kqvBAgMg-kzhDB78iVPAAM4s7CqY7r4021-aHIXNSrRwU4fRCsVeib5RNewZ_9GvGMBciQqqiMr-V44w/s1600-h/P1180229.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5wi0OmdEniXslSwweJ7CsllzM4awmpWLE-zdpmP_qyOsScX5_gDcvl4y5iI7kqvBAgMg-kzhDB78iVPAAM4s7CqY7r4021-aHIXNSrRwU4fRCsVeib5RNewZ_9GvGMBciQqqiMr-V44w/s400/P1180229.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215462801694241874" border="0" /></a>Kok Sheng came across this <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/06/sea-apple-at-changi.html">psychedelic Sea apple sea cucumber</a> as well as other creatures.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZDLd5XB2fFZDlBjdEFJb6TzXjPr-abKQsnHR83Pu8T_nGiTbKHfyCjiarRLWTPe6FutiaRZssejiGw6SICQ0C-coYf1JUKWj5iIEdM_wm-7JoE_iKazIi7kki52KasPVTeI4M0wB4N8/s1600-h/DSC_5746m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcZDLd5XB2fFZDlBjdEFJb6TzXjPr-abKQsnHR83Pu8T_nGiTbKHfyCjiarRLWTPe6FutiaRZssejiGw6SICQ0C-coYf1JUKWj5iIEdM_wm-7JoE_iKazIi7kki52KasPVTeI4M0wB4N8/s400/DSC_5746m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5213416263354537442" border="0" /></a><a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/frogfish-on-changi.html">A strange kind of sea anemone</a> sitting on a blade of seagrass was also seen. It's identity is still unknown. There's so much more to learn about our shores!<br /><br />Before the low tides started, the Blue Water Volunteers did <a href="http://www.bluewatervolunteers.org/reef-friends/hantu-14-june-2008/">an underwater survey of Pulau Hantu</a>. The visibility was an unbelievable 5-6m and besides lots of corals, the volunteers also encountered all kinds of fishes, nudibranchs and other marine life. But alas, the bloggers didn't bring cameras so there's no photos.<br /><br />A small team had the pleasure of <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/exploring-labrador-with-prof-leo-tan.html">exploring Labrador with Prof Leo Tan</a>. Labrador is very special to Prof as he succeeded in getting it declared a Nature Reserve (more about Prof Tan in today's ST article <a href="http://wildsingaporenews.blogspot.com/2008/06/green-urbanites-in-singapore.html">"Green Urbanites"</a>).<br /><br />Although the Labrador shore has and will bear the brunt of <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/reclamation-starts-at-sentosa-massive.html">massive reclamation works nearby</a>, it is still alive.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnw0t1uWF11dp8l9QUshQ9UgmNxnDqMAXNFpQCQPgnLEZ4BQ0SPsDGsIDOef1PGKC1KNlxPYitIfE9dL47y4M-2Ewt7f8GlqOa3iOqLpgdLk0mlh52OvfwZ7RHvilf8cO_uA0ZOvChSc/s1600-h/DSC_6016m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnw0t1uWF11dp8l9QUshQ9UgmNxnDqMAXNFpQCQPgnLEZ4BQ0SPsDGsIDOef1PGKC1KNlxPYitIfE9dL47y4M-2Ewt7f8GlqOa3iOqLpgdLk0mlh52OvfwZ7RHvilf8cO_uA0ZOvChSc/s400/DSC_6016m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214336065796792130" border="0" /></a>A strange fish was seen, possibly a kind of moray eel.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_jY4WSbGcNU2rXYlb-ofKgwfC9u0CJZyNaXxmT58-bQNowyMg_R8lq2Y68I0nGwWcYQfNpEVZxBI-_D5VYEX4Ujq_nIVPr488F6UScHY5xJoOUeGVdNfRZKQPVGSRdzqX3ziohYpOuc/s1600-h/scallop.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_jY4WSbGcNU2rXYlb-ofKgwfC9u0CJZyNaXxmT58-bQNowyMg_R8lq2Y68I0nGwWcYQfNpEVZxBI-_D5VYEX4Ujq_nIVPr488F6UScHY5xJoOUeGVdNfRZKQPVGSRdzqX3ziohYpOuc/s400/scallop.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214336991979734482" border="0" /></a>As well as a living scallop! Which clapped its valves and jetted off.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZStv3Lx0srVKxlTPjwI_Oc6x-ztKGbpmtBwK3sz9R3yaZ1vdTwb9P548woqY55HLfQ2buv0ufNccjlEcs28DkYZF2dM1e_xyHyLkcobZjmYCfstOBNz8JXGob_0LcdpT6O5l035Kod0/s1600-h/DSC_6167m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwZStv3Lx0srVKxlTPjwI_Oc6x-ztKGbpmtBwK3sz9R3yaZ1vdTwb9P548woqY55HLfQ2buv0ufNccjlEcs28DkYZF2dM1e_xyHyLkcobZjmYCfstOBNz8JXGob_0LcdpT6O5l035Kod0/s400/DSC_6167m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214336153075648722" border="0" /></a>Another special find was this rare snail, possibly <span style="font-style: italic;">Nerita polita</span>, which is listed among Singapore's threatened animals.<br /><br />Andy has also uploaded a whole host of amazing videos of marine life on Labrador, from a <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/06/red-featherstar-labrador.html">red feather star</a> to a <a href="http://sgbeachbum.blogspot.com/2008/06/snapping-shrimp-and-goby-symbiosis.html">snapping shrimp and its goby friend</a>.<br /><br />The torrential rain and fierce lightning display on Saturday morning didn't deter a small group of determined visitors and the Naked Hermit Crabs. They managed to do a quick walk on the <a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/06/sentosa-walk-22-june-08.html">fascinating natural shores of Sentosa</a> during a lull in the wet weather.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214581572970377298" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeaGC9B1JREMcdqHYDPzmivPLk2iKCxvZPSLwIDu2AeM3mH8vD7PTAoTVm9Ri6kQQbEeFR7C0AwmemkmaezcV79-KiSJB3TpTImixrGVR75keEgkz58gUaYd_xD4CdJWUhiXKs4J38RGg/s400/P6220077m6.jpg" border="0" />The enthusiastic visitors were enthralled by corals and other special discoveries. Alas, these shores are likely to be impacted by <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/quick-view-of-sentosa-integrated-resort.html">ongoing works at the Sentosa IR</a> nearby.<br /><br />July also shares about the importance of seagrasses and some of the marine life encountered during <a href="http://wherediscoverybegins.blogspot.com/2008/06/semakau-inter-tidal-walk-on-21-june.html">a public walk at Pulau Semakau</a> during this low tide period. Pulau Semakau has one of the largest seagrass meadows that is accessible to the public.<br /><br />A small team also <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/walk-on-cyrene.html">visited Cyrene</a> and saw lots of splendid marine life.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTKaeJKOq2sKzCz33LNr4dV6AcHdLe4oMHDLIxmwHbRy0cFBZiKyCf31D1o2T-_YAUw3YDryzhygfFxGqVZ_rOjOglhfvYmN8FG2VQ7zL_zkk1CTAepHyPL7Z9JAiLh5Q11RUYD35AJ8/s1600-h/_DSC0031m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTKaeJKOq2sKzCz33LNr4dV6AcHdLe4oMHDLIxmwHbRy0cFBZiKyCf31D1o2T-_YAUw3YDryzhygfFxGqVZ_rOjOglhfvYmN8FG2VQ7zL_zkk1CTAepHyPL7Z9JAiLh5Q11RUYD35AJ8/s400/_DSC0031m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215049378187473826" border="0" /></a>Sijie also <a href="http://naturescouter.blogspot.com/2008/06/star-tracking-at-cyrene-3.html">shares more</a> nudis, stars and other creatures seen on Cyrene. As well as a quick report of their observations of the Knobbly sea stars there.<br /><blockquote>"A total of 64 individuals were recorded on this trip alone. This is more than the previous two trips in May combined (62)! What's more interesting is that babies comprised more than 80% of the total number!<br /><br />After some comparison, out of the 64 seen, apparently almost all of them are new individuals (not recorded from previous trips in May)! This may jolly well bring the total number of Protoreaster nodusus population in Cyrene Reef to at least a whooping <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">120</span>!!<br /><br />This is definitely the largest population of <em>P. nodusus</em> you can find in Singapore. Be it seasonal or not, this proves that this safe heaven should be preserved for the sake of all its fauna, and for all our children to see. We should not be the ones to witness the demise of this wonderful patch of reef!"</blockquote>Indeed, we have amazing shores and the jewel among them is Cyrene Reef.<br /><br />Come and visit Cyrene with the working team, by simply joining the <a href="http://leafmonkey.blogspot.com/2008/05/lets-go-to-cyrene-reef-blogging-contest.html">blogging contest</a>!<br /><br />More blog entries of trips this last low tide, by location<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/changi">Changi</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/cyrene">Cyrene Reef</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/labrador">Labrador</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/semakau">Pulau Semakau</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/st-john">St. John's Island</a></li></ul></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088567218684083581.post-65173894186661155212008-06-10T07:55:00.002+08:002008-08-07T21:07:41.232+08:00Dolphins and low tide surprises<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi5qxa16Nybe_x96dAJpVfJoyiz-72bEer2F1VBJ_dio1vGpIeTcECcJpfJFurpgKm2DUCEN_heTcb9uBYVVfmmNXlTTGbKEcSiJPehXdjWWqBb5aAj9rUDEhbUIbB5EeKnJm7Bk89Is/s1600-h/IMG_0096.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; float: right; display: block; cursor: pointer; width: 217px; height: 206px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCi5qxa16Nybe_x96dAJpVfJoyiz-72bEer2F1VBJ_dio1vGpIeTcECcJpfJFurpgKm2DUCEN_heTcb9uBYVVfmmNXlTTGbKEcSiJPehXdjWWqBb5aAj9rUDEhbUIbB5EeKnJm7Bk89Is/s400/IMG_0096.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210087009740871378" border="0" /></a>Amazing marinelife were encountered during a dive at Kusu Island and the flurry of trips to various shores during this last low spring tide.<br /><br />Dolphins are encountered twice. Pasir Ris is explored and found teeming with sand stars. And a large rare snail encountered on Changi!<br /><span class="fullpost"><br />Dolphins were sighted! On the way to <a href="http://uforest.blogspot.com/2008/06/dolphin.html">Pulau Semakau</a> and to <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-of-cyrene-reefs.html">Cyrene Reef</a>, but only by the awake and eagle-eyed among the teams. The rest of us slackers missed the sightings. Sigh.<br /><br />Just before the low tide started, the first <a href="http://colorclouds.blogspot.com/2008/06/first-reef-survey-for-2008.html">ReefFriends survey of Kusu Island</a> was conducted.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3rpTDjvtbjvToYmrOCg5qwKNr-eH4Dib_3LBY0DtxuXfh1HIa4v-nBzD_j2HkZ9-5KNTJ6dkOE7cfUg5V_rOaGw4zluHo4ZO4uQJ7irSxc0jgEAa_X6NwKv_43a_xNzPQ8hMKutpA-sA/s1600-h/IMG_0128.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3rpTDjvtbjvToYmrOCg5qwKNr-eH4Dib_3LBY0DtxuXfh1HIa4v-nBzD_j2HkZ9-5KNTJ6dkOE7cfUg5V_rOaGw4zluHo4ZO4uQJ7irSxc0jgEAa_X6NwKv_43a_xNzPQ8hMKutpA-sA/s400/IMG_0128.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210087012602078850" border="0" /></a>Among the amazing encounters was this shrimp that lives in Bubble coral!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirfhyUiO2uzRuHUnIkh1zcs7po24z7svc7CkExKuUoI14YfHw942TW68bMgmH_YTRn82WP_swuoEuvHFZXgPYEEwj-WUKfilR-xIU4XaHL2A_ZVlcMHqH1NSU6kaCTq5LMAMPo-7QO5SI/s1600-h/IMG_0099.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirfhyUiO2uzRuHUnIkh1zcs7po24z7svc7CkExKuUoI14YfHw942TW68bMgmH_YTRn82WP_swuoEuvHFZXgPYEEwj-WUKfilR-xIU4XaHL2A_ZVlcMHqH1NSU6kaCTq5LMAMPo-7QO5SI/s400/IMG_0099.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210087017481513762" border="0" /></a>Other sightings included feather stars, anemone fish and many kinds of nudibranchs.<br /><br />This series of low tide, a few volunteers went along with the very cool Dr James Reimer a zoanthid expert, here with the lovely Liana on the way home from Cyrene Reef.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBB0QEM2pWLVJWO_-cRhBt3Bvd92i37YHMXqMchW8U_yyp8MHyMX2SmbXC8k0jrY_ND_vHhUAo9QQuzibI15XPJDkRPky4PYpIV0eGPoU7poQWraG2bnRujgrYozpFBbhaj2IU3vNQOc/s1600-h/P6080019m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVBB0QEM2pWLVJWO_-cRhBt3Bvd92i37YHMXqMchW8U_yyp8MHyMX2SmbXC8k0jrY_ND_vHhUAo9QQuzibI15XPJDkRPky4PYpIV0eGPoU7poQWraG2bnRujgrYozpFBbhaj2IU3vNQOc/s400/P6080019m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209479516943864802" border="0" /></a>What are zoanthids? They're little flower-like animals that live in colonies and often carpet stones, rocks and even the ground under seagrasses on our shores.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTE4IiiRWQfUMHvfiKAyD_5fjVQ16DEYoAQ7C8ZJpUI_6qNt0RkpCvmvloFabwKyS-P4fCF459Y8gvodByAwhM6tnel7CV1l6xMk7reXhKJIaeFn5VsG2nKINz-FiQRK0c5vwbWJ6H_8M/s1600-h/DSC_4806m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTE4IiiRWQfUMHvfiKAyD_5fjVQ16DEYoAQ7C8ZJpUI_6qNt0RkpCvmvloFabwKyS-P4fCF459Y8gvodByAwhM6tnel7CV1l6xMk7reXhKJIaeFn5VsG2nKINz-FiQRK0c5vwbWJ6H_8M/s400/DSC_4806m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208048529158382306" border="0" /></a>Here's more about zoanthids found with Dr James on <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-of-kusu-island.html">Kusu Island</a>, <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-of-pulau-hantu.html">Pulau Hantu</a>, <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-of-changi.html">Changi</a> and <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-of-cyrene-reefs.html">Cyrene Reef</a>. On Cyrene Reef, Dr James found a zoanthid that he first saw in the Galapagos!<br /><br />The zoanthid hunt at Pulau Hantu <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-hunt-at-hantu.html">reveals a thriving reef</a>.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk0r5r7SMQFe5BQUFXnQR8etYLoMNoNwTfCU8rEZ7t9eh9PyvcJoJKTATCbsYOmsCHeNJyN_RXBEmNC7z1VTkzed_iokH610HLVemkQEijM0e8YP4y_STFd4Kl7lax9LPiE4un7V9KOA/s1600-h/hantuz13.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk0r5r7SMQFe5BQUFXnQR8etYLoMNoNwTfCU8rEZ7t9eh9PyvcJoJKTATCbsYOmsCHeNJyN_RXBEmNC7z1VTkzed_iokH610HLVemkQEijM0e8YP4y_STFd4Kl7lax9LPiE4un7V9KOA/s400/hantuz13.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210086335199772050" border="0" /></a>The lagoon was littered with mushroom corals of all kinds and sizes.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDS4g8wlhN4ky8j2hLgcuw5GVx5n_8ljGSA02M6Y1ORC72twvjFrxCmgs3cwULHB0xd7uWZUXv-Y8oHti8YPSYzrWrsZ9JxBrA2xmELIYpH4L7sAAnS2itAHtH74ygM_8Qa4ghYb_F9Y/s1600-h/hantuz28.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEDS4g8wlhN4ky8j2hLgcuw5GVx5n_8ljGSA02M6Y1ORC72twvjFrxCmgs3cwULHB0xd7uWZUXv-Y8oHti8YPSYzrWrsZ9JxBrA2xmELIYpH4L7sAAnS2itAHtH74ygM_8Qa4ghYb_F9Y/s400/hantuz28.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210086306426332354" border="0" /></a>An amazing variety of feather stars were also encountered; red, black, and multicoloured ones.<br /><br />SJ has done a wonderful <a href="http://naturescouter.blogspot.com/2008/06/four-days-four-shores-whole-lot-of.html">summary of all the marvellous marinelife</a> encountered during the zoanthid hunts.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpH0yT4CabaqWijF9_qTmJTrk3SnkUdRtjMru2iDv5e9_rf2LdoLuVsCsv1QzAbx-jIs5MaRgfxBTvQHI7z8FU9nYEPPRdKNkq331lzQK3NCtoPeb3k-X9JaZ0zwyW2sBnVX_4kGPWqbM/s1600-h/2564380072_18651e993d_o.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpH0yT4CabaqWijF9_qTmJTrk3SnkUdRtjMru2iDv5e9_rf2LdoLuVsCsv1QzAbx-jIs5MaRgfxBTvQHI7z8FU9nYEPPRdKNkq331lzQK3NCtoPeb3k-X9JaZ0zwyW2sBnVX_4kGPWqbM/s400/2564380072_18651e993d_o.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210101724849742962" border="0" /></a>Here's some of the stunning nudibranchs seen.<br /><br />Pasir Ris was a shore explored for the first time by <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/06/checking-sand-stars-out-at-pasir-ris.html">Kok Sheng and the sand star team</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdEH8Q-Hid5w-9j1gawnVJFcMqj9cnuX0FlcwEUCucmg7UKiqJ3_rLQX8uyXCLnOk3cTd7aPslAGpXTvBj_-FbMsGQ-WqF4FqfV-1huOY1fYJUAxXXpY-1uyDs5cV3rFwv6Ir9lw8uDY/s1600-h/P1180024.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdEH8Q-Hid5w-9j1gawnVJFcMqj9cnuX0FlcwEUCucmg7UKiqJ3_rLQX8uyXCLnOk3cTd7aPslAGpXTvBj_-FbMsGQ-WqF4FqfV-1huOY1fYJUAxXXpY-1uyDs5cV3rFwv6Ir9lw8uDY/s400/P1180024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210084275512576530" border="0" /></a>The deluge did not stop them from their study of the shore, although it did dampen the mood.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihKLUbxEWGSYCI8L87cWo_wVWdLKh9HqOpcuTdo6h9i2xITdt1SeWyRmo6Cf0mTnAPnDUwLh4o-23-jaeeH5vrJ1Pga3EPazpSp5cqOxNoBMh81cEVwtnDmG0l3XGhoQtCfydcC1Rtm8/s1600-h/DSC_4527m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihKLUbxEWGSYCI8L87cWo_wVWdLKh9HqOpcuTdo6h9i2xITdt1SeWyRmo6Cf0mTnAPnDUwLh4o-23-jaeeH5vrJ1Pga3EPazpSp5cqOxNoBMh81cEVwtnDmG0l3XGhoQtCfydcC1Rtm8/s320/DSC_4527m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207442092661088322" border="0" /></a>Pasir Ris was teeming with <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=8110737299038469570&postID=5152405126500424939">sand stars of all colours and sizes and patterns</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfdNoSE0cpk8VgWivy7DBSoPpb4g8TDB5l8eyi3YPaAQdQKeaZfsXVsAOYySNVxWJSHa70-pzMl_tu5Lcx6-q_3Ot1D3S-epBhyphenhyphenQG7B7fHOw-fgut2A3CewfJucBhQ4CbMNsqVCbq3rQ/s1600-h/DSC_4648m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfdNoSE0cpk8VgWivy7DBSoPpb4g8TDB5l8eyi3YPaAQdQKeaZfsXVsAOYySNVxWJSHa70-pzMl_tu5Lcx6-q_3Ot1D3S-epBhyphenhyphenQG7B7fHOw-fgut2A3CewfJucBhQ4CbMNsqVCbq3rQ/s320/DSC_4648m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207442724021280946" border="0" /></a>Also encountered were large gatherings of short-spined black sea urchins!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1p1B7v7Wd2Jrjd91n3nkSZA8LuTN9HZA33-YZaV_PwmbBbNigBOYR-Cxg_IajzTjkFwPGj1w5K_5bntJjUKHi7Pru-HGMiFZCkWDg-B2qRB_xZ9qoYubvEEjvdpp-BlV1ZJfbcXFyiY/s1600-h/P1180026.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1p1B7v7Wd2Jrjd91n3nkSZA8LuTN9HZA33-YZaV_PwmbBbNigBOYR-Cxg_IajzTjkFwPGj1w5K_5bntJjUKHi7Pru-HGMiFZCkWDg-B2qRB_xZ9qoYubvEEjvdpp-BlV1ZJfbcXFyiY/s400/P1180026.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210084279795647234" border="0" /></a>And even a seahorse! There were also other kinds of sea stars, octopuses and more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Changi very much alive!</span><br /><br />Changi was also visited several times during this low tide. On the sandier portions of this long shoreline, <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/06/all-stars-concert-at-changi.html">lots of sea stars were encountered</a>!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsChNMjtrJeBjCuz7TaAvbO4K_zuMIl3eVT6UvaaeHbLORMdDk2wBXrzK-of5KOJ-Sak-OqFzlC3fMZ9NRzkNWx5NWyNHvRkwUnY-gfVOAXCIEV6-7Ve51P0A0VkpUJZv_KiJcnSc1eo/s1600-h/P1170664.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKsChNMjtrJeBjCuz7TaAvbO4K_zuMIl3eVT6UvaaeHbLORMdDk2wBXrzK-of5KOJ-Sak-OqFzlC3fMZ9NRzkNWx5NWyNHvRkwUnY-gfVOAXCIEV6-7Ve51P0A0VkpUJZv_KiJcnSc1eo/s400/P1170664.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210086343727298450" border="0" /></a>Besides the very pretty Biscuit sea stars above, Kok Sheng and the sand star team saw possibly 8 species of sea stars on Changi! They also saw a seahorse, lots of peacock anemones and sea anemones and other wonderful marinelife there.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88j8uvwWcn3UOyv2fJp_FSp6oC2wSyRIvh-R4ChoM_DthQJPHMjkCCJew7vfCdyEqzwO7CMmbwI_Y-kGQjOtoYWf98e-8p7HkaD2QDZ3wtIXI4bph5a4oVLwtWIy1HhyphenhyphenIxS3SxKomxlQ/s1600-h/P1170761.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88j8uvwWcn3UOyv2fJp_FSp6oC2wSyRIvh-R4ChoM_DthQJPHMjkCCJew7vfCdyEqzwO7CMmbwI_Y-kGQjOtoYWf98e-8p7HkaD2QDZ3wtIXI4bph5a4oVLwtWIy1HhyphenhyphenIxS3SxKomxlQ/s400/P1170761.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210090445581448930" border="0" /></a>It was also heartening to hear that a <a href="http://wondercreation.blogspot.com/2008/06/more-marine-creatures-of-changi-beach.html">large living Bailer snail</a> (<span style="font-style: italic;">Melo melo</span>) was seen on Changi. The <a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2007/07/mone-not-enough.html">previous time a Bailer snail was seen</a>, it was being collected by someone who was going to cook and eat it! This large snail is on the list of threatened animals of Singapore because of over-collection and habitat loss. It's such a shame to cook something that is threatened and nearly extinct on our shores.<br /><br /><a href="http://wildfilms.blogspot.com/2008/06/zoanthids-of-changi.html">Elsewhere on Changi</a>, the sea fans seem to be returning in full splendour.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_Mm6rBOh_iyv2xmkokMgdkgOMfdmW2GmSzoEyXiWl8NN_UyCRQwHocbS_O0wD-dHoTXgIdFPa3OUsMXXzIZWcQRj9H7VeBj6Q3BNtGNgAQiFW31hoK7atrQUXmzWBJBeFUmgjU9Nmv4/s1600-h/DSC_5337m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_Mm6rBOh_iyv2xmkokMgdkgOMfdmW2GmSzoEyXiWl8NN_UyCRQwHocbS_O0wD-dHoTXgIdFPa3OUsMXXzIZWcQRj9H7VeBj6Q3BNtGNgAQiFW31hoK7atrQUXmzWBJBeFUmgjU9Nmv4/s400/DSC_5337m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209112770133262994" border="0" /></a>With large bushy red ones.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5ASfP3TeJJGOBGfC6OB4WSQnT5qShdFPnvmr87IQv_6iMIE5x5FrXJr_IkK19nDRf9-f-Wn93k5JxRiHsYWBD13I0co4KnBV-gXuOlTBYe5WUA2F3lhsJuIIiGhpCbJ3-uBUzandYFs/s1600-h/DSC_5330m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5ASfP3TeJJGOBGfC6OB4WSQnT5qShdFPnvmr87IQv_6iMIE5x5FrXJr_IkK19nDRf9-f-Wn93k5JxRiHsYWBD13I0co4KnBV-gXuOlTBYe5WUA2F3lhsJuIIiGhpCbJ3-uBUzandYFs/s400/DSC_5330m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209112761543328370" border="0" /></a>And chunky orange ones, despite the rather murky waters.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-Cvqy8zNYcZoPKs-nqpDHoUCE3qObxOS5-b7lFaQ4Z5AyPFog8290uLqjglCVHCBesA-8FZBHOPQjqQvdO_Tta3zPUAgANF2fIEGFMykH7-BWLK8Z-fsQEzmz8bOfS4MPge5Kp2WFNs/s1600-h/DSC_5293m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV-Cvqy8zNYcZoPKs-nqpDHoUCE3qObxOS5-b7lFaQ4Z5AyPFog8290uLqjglCVHCBesA-8FZBHOPQjqQvdO_Tta3zPUAgANF2fIEGFMykH7-BWLK8Z-fsQEzmz8bOfS4MPge5Kp2WFNs/s400/DSC_5293m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209112568269799986" border="0" /></a>An orange sea horse was encountered.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_C9T5mFCzj5I2s78dd3PR8_p8xmjBGQw0e-t_LQDBTdfUnD33usvXHRP1TCDz43wHH-yJPx6Gk7aT975d3njU7Xqr54GFP5H0LKoo_ki8OqkSspPZL4gHlghpddoUovcgpeZWdUsclg/s1600-h/DSC_5324m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_C9T5mFCzj5I2s78dd3PR8_p8xmjBGQw0e-t_LQDBTdfUnD33usvXHRP1TCDz43wHH-yJPx6Gk7aT975d3njU7Xqr54GFP5H0LKoo_ki8OqkSspPZL4gHlghpddoUovcgpeZWdUsclg/s400/DSC_5324m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209112572564767314" border="0" /></a>As well as a large feather star, with a little brown brittle star (at the lower right corner of the photo). Changi is most definitely alive!<br /><br /><a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/06/cyrene-reef-jun-08.html">TeamSeagrass</a> conducted monitoring sessions at Tuas and Cyrene this low tide.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrf1LL1Jvw2uHbk50QTpas8QUD5xA_k4gVmmQIBBOQoJtsSci7XqqfeVSiqy9q13lUq_BrbQPDEP-DJ1E9XtAIPeoI7z1rIJu6WmQwm5X38fg0YLbR6VVqzmMV7JsZhUqogJUvdNTIak/s1600-h/2556265010_5d4eb1320b.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGrf1LL1Jvw2uHbk50QTpas8QUD5xA_k4gVmmQIBBOQoJtsSci7XqqfeVSiqy9q13lUq_BrbQPDEP-DJ1E9XtAIPeoI7z1rIJu6WmQwm5X38fg0YLbR6VVqzmMV7JsZhUqogJUvdNTIak/s400/2556265010_5d4eb1320b.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210086351097338642" border="0" /></a>Cyrene Reefs continue to fascinate with encounter such as with this <a href="http://budak.blogs.com/the_annotated_budak/2008/06/frogfish.html">frog fish</a>.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywu0lXGaNsaY6RVdNGJ-sSGsCbQA1OH5yH7Sn_c38Znb75x-Fb9lMa71J5S0lzkLRFD7GHZrpXtIkuppc7Gi6BLvUyWMsf6kGTxkc0Z23jckS9Qu7gGbqDxWVqhvO6bFet0nKASRm_CI/s1600-h/DSC_5201m6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgywu0lXGaNsaY6RVdNGJ-sSGsCbQA1OH5yH7Sn_c38Znb75x-Fb9lMa71J5S0lzkLRFD7GHZrpXtIkuppc7Gi6BLvUyWMsf6kGTxkc0Z23jckS9Qu7gGbqDxWVqhvO6bFet0nKASRm_CI/s400/DSC_5201m6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210086346689854306" border="0" /></a>And <a href="http://teamseagrass.blogspot.com/2008/06/cyrene-reef-jun-08.html">cowfish</a>!<br /><br />There was also a trip to Raffles Lighthouse <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECGKdDa3VyposS8cAgsrSYLqWTDlrvSM08JLcJNPe83S2hnGSZFxdk90-KDU_vX8WLWerpc5UWM92rvDgm00AWQS2mLOUUB3ISY01p-4lzeanV4rD6H1atp-HbHaFkzCYixP8HoMBxfg/s1600-h/1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECGKdDa3VyposS8cAgsrSYLqWTDlrvSM08JLcJNPe83S2hnGSZFxdk90-KDU_vX8WLWerpc5UWM92rvDgm00AWQS2mLOUUB3ISY01p-4lzeanV4rD6H1atp-HbHaFkzCYixP8HoMBxfg/s400/1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210090431215874034" border="0" /></a>with a fascinating look at <a href="http://mountain-n-sea.blogspot.com/2008/06/raffles-lighthouse.html">the lighthouse and its history</a>.<br /><br />This low tide period also saw a frenzy of outreach activities including<br /><ul><li><a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/05/announcing-our-sentosa-walks-2008.html">Sentosa family walks</a> by the Naked Hermit Crabs</li><li><a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/06/5-15-june-naked-hermit-crabs-to-host.html">Cyrene poster exhibition at RE-Live</a> by the Naked Hermit Crabs</li><li><a href="http://nakedhermitcrabs.blogspot.com/2008/06/naked-truth-see-our-shores-in-new-light.html">"The Naked Truth"</a> an exhibition and public talk about Cyrene and our reefs with the Naked Hermit Crabs</li><li>The Naked Hermit Crabs also gave <a href="http://lazy-lizard-tales.blogspot.com/2008/06/im-popping-up-everywhere.html">many media interviews</a> as part of the World Environment Day event with Transitions Optical.</li></ul>More blog entries of trips and activities during the last low tides by location<br /><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/changi">Changi</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/cyrene">Cyrene Reef</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/kusu">Kusu Island</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/pasir%20ris">Pasir Ris</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/hantu">Pulau Hantu</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/semakau">Pulau Semakau</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/ubin">Pulau Ubin</a></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/sentosa">Sentosa</a><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com/reader/shared/user/12355670525022093752/label/st-john">St. John's Island</a></li></ul><br /><br /></span>IYOR08 Singaporehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00584841451907202749noreply@blogger.com0