Crypsis
The Scaley Turban (Turbo perspeciosus) is a surprisingly cryptic species. Upon first glance, it may appear to be rather conspicuously coloured, boasting what on occasion is a bright, turquoise shell with coloured flecks throughout. However upon consideration of the micro-habitat within which the species occurs, this colouration and patterning allows them to blend in remarkably well with their surroundings. Observations of the species made on Heron Island (Marine Invertebrates Field Trip 2011) provide further evidence of the cryptic nature of the Scaley Turban.
Figure 1. Photograph hightlighting the ability of T. perspeciosis to camouflage against its surroundings. (Photo courtesy of Alyssa Budd 2011)
As would be expected, the ability of T. perspeciosis to camouflage itself within its micro-habitat provides significant protection again predation. |