Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are among the most iconic species inhabiting the world’s oceans. Best known for their elaborate displays of behaviour, humpback whales exhibit considerable activity near the water’s surface, such as breaching and surface slapping with their flippers and tail (known as lobtailing). These actions are thought to constitute play, socialisation, communication, and […]
Bioluminescence is a captivating natural phenomenon which occurs when living organisms generate light through internal chemical reactions. It is observed throughout a wide range of ecosystems in a number of different species, including fish, cephalopods such as octopus and squid, bacteria, fungi, fireflies and phytoplankton. Bioluminescence is a ‘cold light’ that emits minimal heat, and
Dorids, commonly known as dorid nudibranchs (Doridoidea), belong to the group of soft- bodied sea slugs scientifically classified as Opisthobranchia. The term Doridoidea originates from the genus name Doris, which itself traces back to the sea nymph of the same name in Greek mythology. With a remarkable diversity exceeding 2000 species, dorids stand out as
