Thorny oyster

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Thorny oyster

Thorny oyster (Spondylus varius). This filter feeder is a bivalve mollusc and is part of the clam family. However, like true oysters, this oyster cements itself to rocks. The key feature of this oyster is the ball and socket hinge used to hold the two parts of the shell together, rather than the more common toothed hinge. The thorny oyster has numerous eyes around the edges of its shell and it has a well-developed nervous system. Photographed off Maratua Island, in the Sulawesi Sea, Indonesia

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6466391

© MATTHEW OLDFIELD/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Bivalve Borneo Derawan Islands Immobile Indonesia Kalimantan Maratua Marine Life Mollusc Mollusca Mollusk Open Opened Opening Orange Oyster Shell Southeast Asia Sulawesi Sea Thorny Oyster

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of a Thorny oyster (Spondylus varius), a fascinating filter feeder belonging to the clam family. Unlike typical clams, this oyster firmly attaches itself to rocks using cement-like substances. What sets it apart is its unique ball and socket hinge, which elegantly holds the two parts of its shell together instead of relying on toothed hinges commonly found in other species. The vibrant orange hue of this marine creature's shell immediately catches the eye, while numerous eyes dotting its edges hint at an advanced nervous system. This photograph was taken off Maratua Island in Indonesia's Sulawesi Sea, capturing a moment where nature's wonders unfold beneath the ocean surface. Immobile yet captivatingly detailed, this thorny oyster exemplifies the rich biodiversity found in Southeast Asia's tropical waters. Its presence adds depth to our understanding of marine biology and invites us to appreciate the intricacies within our oceans. Science Photo Library presents this stunning image as part of their collection that celebrates nature's marvels without any commercial intent. It serves as a reminder that there is so much more waiting to be discovered beneath the waves – an entire world teeming with life and wonder for those willing to explore it.

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