Alex Mustard - Cichlid Babies

 

A pair of Mayan cichlids (Cichlasoma urophthalmus) guarding their eggs beneath the forest in an Mexican cenote. I always enjoy shooting in freshwater because fish life cycles are so different from the sea. In the oceans most fish eggs hatch into larvae, which drift in the plankton for several weeks before changing into baby fish and settling out. In freshwater babies grow up alongside the adults and this has led to many interesting reproductive strategies and behaviours. Most cichlids are caring parents.


Location: Yucatan, Mexico

Posted on: 28/08/2012
Photo info - 30.07.2012: NIKON D4, 15 mm, ISO 400, f 11, 1/320 sec

Tags: Alex Mustard, Cichlasoma urophthalmus, freshwater, Mayan cichlid, Mexico, reproduction, underwater


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Comments

  1. Werner said:

    28/08/2012 10:41

    Alex, that's great! Interesting behaviour, information about the environment and great colors and composition. I really like it!

  2. Jost Stergarsek said:

    28/08/2012 13:35

    i especially like the intimate feel in an ultra-wide frame ... and vibrant colours and dark-light contrast too!

  3. Ashley said:

    20/09/2012 00:18

    If you want california pics check this page: https://www.facebook.com/Welovecalifornia001