Hard coral polyps. Close-up of the polyps of a hard coral (Galaxea sp.). Each polyp has several tentacles,which catch planktonic organisms from the water and pass them to a central mouth. These polyps secrete a hard substance for protection and support. They build huge rock-like structures known as reefs,which commonly form the basis for diverse tropical marine ecosystems. This coral is found in the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Photographed off Mabul,Malaysia | |
Licence : | Droits gérés |
Crédit: | Science Photo Library / Oldfield, Matthew |
Taille de l’image : | 4542 px × 3089 px |
Model Release : | Non requis |
Property Release : | Non requis |
Restrictions : | - |