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a very large Moray Eel that was swimming at Coral Gardens
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date: 27/3/2009
Author:Nick Brennan
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Weather: Sunny | Air Temp: 27.9°C | Wind: SE 20/25 knots | Water Temp: 25°C | Water Visibility: ~10 m | Sea State: Chop
The great barrier reef seemed more alive than ever today with loads of plankton eating fish schooling out at the coral gardens. Blue green chromis, fusilier as well as many other brightly coloured damselfish created an absolutely awesome spectacle for guests on the glass bottom boat. The boat moored up right over a school of Big Eyed Trevally that were creating their characteristic tornado on the bottom. One guest dived down with his digital camera and got right in the middle making for some interesting footage of fish swirling all around him. Another guest loved the caves around coral gardens and said he enjoyed swimming through them like one of the fish.
On the guided reef walk one guest was interested in nudibranch’s and we were fortunate enough to actually come across one. It was white with purple spots and it didn’t move away quickly either so everybody that came was able to see it. Everybody was fascinated to hear that some species are able to eat and store hydroids on their skin and thus allow them to avoid predation! How’s that for a clever adaptation. The Blue Linckia sea star captured a lot of attention again today standing out against the reef with their striking colour and ensuring a lot of photos were taken.
On the afternoon dive guests came across a very large Moray Eel that was swimming at Coral Gardens. It had a head like a tree trunk and the divers admitted they felt a little bit scared by it.
In the evening guests chilled out in the Manta Lounge and watched Australia’s greatest Islands DVD which features Lady Elliot Island.
Special Events / Activities:
The students from the University of Georgia also entertained and informed guests with their short presentations about organisms found on the Great Barrier Reef. Thanks guys!
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Moray Eel - Jenni Fox
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click to download flash player