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Part 9: The Shrimp That Vomits LightGuest Contributor: Dr. Sonke Johnson, Marine Biologist and Deep-sea Explorer
Posted July 24, 2015: I got some great photos of a bioluminescent deep-sea shrimp called Heterocarpus ensifer. This shrimp spews — aka vomits — bioluminescent fluid. Cool, right? Think of it sort of like an octopus’ ink. When startled by a predator, it releases a cloud of this glowing stuff. Now, instead of hidden in the dark, the would-be predator is floating, maybe even wearing glowing stuff. If it’s wise, it quickly leaves before an even bigger predator sees it. This gives the shrimp a chance to get away or survive. Pretty smart defense, don’t you think? Hope you’re enjoying the cruise as much as I am. |