Robert's Ramblings

Today I stumbled upon a rare find, Porcelainus aquaticus or more commonly the Neptune Fish Trap.

Although Porcelainus aquaticus begins its life on dry land it needs to remain wet in order to feed and mature.
Many never make it to adulthood, ending up dry and abandoned in tips or deserted buildings but enough however do make to the ocean floor where they begin their adult life.

Unlike other ascidians the adult Neptune Fish Trap does not filter feed but waits in the ambush position, mouth agape, waiting for an unsuspecting fish to venture just a little too close.
In just a moment or too one of the fish traps will be having goatfish for dinner.

The complete lifecycle of Porcelainus aquaticus and how its young return to land remains a mystery to this day.


Photo: Robert Rath, 'Day 773, Neptune Fish Trap' 4s f/7.1 ISO400 15mm