Asthenosoma Varium Collection

Coleman shrimp (Periclimenes colemani) close up, on a fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium). Anilao, Batangas, Luzon, Philippines. Verde Island Passages, Tropical West Pacific Ocean

Pair of Coleman shrimps (Periclimenes colemani) living in a fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium). The female is the larger shrimp

Pair of Coleman shrimps (Periclimenes colemani) living in Fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium). The female is the larger shrimp. Anilao, Batangas marine protected area, Luzon, Philippines

Brooks urchin shrimp (Allopontonia brooki), commensal among the venomous spines of Variable sea urchin (Asthenosoma varium). On sea floor, Komodo, Indonesia

Pair of Coleman shrimps (Periclimenes colemani) make their home in a fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium). The female is larger

toxic Fire Urchin (Asthenosoma varium), Puerto Gallera, Philippines, SE Asia

Coleman's Shrimp (Periclimenes colemani) adult, on Fire Urchin (Asthenosoma varium), Ambon Island, Maluku Islands, Banda Sea, Indonesia

Coleman's Shrimp (Periclimenes colemani) adult pair, on Fire Urchin (Asthenosoma varium), Ambon Island, Maluku Islands, Banda Sea, Indonesia

Colemans shrimp on a sea urchin
Colemans shrimp (Periclimenes colemani) on the body of a venomous sea urchin (Asthenosoma varium). This shrimp is found exclusively on this sea urchin

Fire urchin spines. Close-up of the spines of a fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium), a type of sea urchin. Each spine is tipped with a poison-filled sac (white), used in defence against predators

Parasitic marine snails (Luetzenia asthenosomae, white) laying eggs on a host fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium). Photographed in Bali, Indonesia

Fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium). Photographed off Rinca island, Komodo National Park, Indonesia

Fire Urchin (Asthenosoma varium). Indo Pacific
Tom Campbell / SplashdownDirect

Coleman Shrimp (Periclimenes Colemani) Zebra or Urchin Crab (Zebrida adamssi) on Fire Urchin (Asthenosoma varium)
Stephen Wong / SplashdownDirect

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In the vibrant waters of Southeast Asia, a fascinating relationship unfolds between the fire urchin (Asthenosoma varium) and its tiny inhabitants. This venomous giant stands as one of the largest and most toxic urchins in existence, proudly displaying its warning colors to deter any potential predators. Amongst its spiky embrace, a pair of Coleman shrimps (Periclimenes colemani) have found their sanctuary. The female shrimp, larger than her male counterpart, gracefully navigates through the intricate network of venomous spines. Their symbiotic bond is evident as they make this fire urchin their home. A close-up view reveals the delicate beauty of these Coleman shrimps resting on their fiery abode. With meticulous precision, they maneuver around each spine with ease, showcasing their adaptability and resilience in such an inhospitable environment. But it's not just Coleman shrimps that seek refuge within this treacherous creature. Brooks urchin shrimp (Allopontonia brooki), another commensal species, also find solace among these dangerous spines. It seems that survival in these waters demands unconventional alliances. Journeying further into Southeast Asia brings us to Puerto Gallera in the Philippines where Asthenosoma varium thrives. Here we witness firsthand the striking toxicity exuded by this fire urchin - a reminder to all who dare approach its mesmerizing hues. Venturing even deeper into Indonesian waters near Ambon Island in Maluku Islands presents yet another encounter with Periclimenes colemani on Asthenosoma varium. These adult pairs demonstrate unity amidst adversity as they cling onto life together against all odds. Nature never ceases to amaze us with its intricacies; even parasitic marine snails find purpose within this ecosystem surrounding Asthenosoma varium. Each organism plays a vital role in maintaining balance and harmony beneath the waves.