Clowning around

Anemonefishes or clownfishes live within a host anemone in a symbiotic relationship. Anemones are related to coral and have stinging cells calls nemotacysts which are used to sting and capture small animals for food. Anemonefishes develop a special mucous on their skin that prevents them from being stung by the host anemone and therefore find protection from predators by hiding within the anemone.

Boat ride in Graceland

Just off the coast of  Colombo the intact wreck of a cargo ship is home to a large and friendly marble ray nicknamed 'Elvis'. In recent times its been seen together with another large ray who predictably earned the name 'Priscilla'. At a maximum depth of 32m this is one of the best wreck dives in Sri Lanka. Easy penetration, colorful corals and abundant fish life mean there is always something to see and explore. Everything from damselfish and electric rays to eagle rays, dolphins and even whales have been seen in the area. I found this lifeboat resting on the sand particularly interesting. A means of escape and symbol of hope on a sinking ship now resting on the seabed and sustaining the lives of marine animals. 

In the beginning............

Thought I will share some of my images and experiences with the other nitrogen junkies and landlubbers out there. Will update with new images as I go along so check back for new pictures and diving news. To start things off here's a picture of one of my favorite marine fishes, the oriental sweetlips. A common inhabitant on Indian Ocean reefs, its active primarily during the night when the fish disperse across the reef to feed on invertebrates, especially mollusks buried under sand. During the day its often found in small groups under ledges or sheltering behing rocks and make great subjects for photography.