New Zealand Seashore

DSC_7252 Intertidal spider (Desis marina) submerged underwater amongst encrusting sponges. This endemic spider occurs on rocky coasts all around NZ and the Chatham Islands. It has a most unusual habitat, which extends underwater from high-tide level down to below normal low tide. Underwater it finds sufficient air pockets trapped amongst the rocks and seaweeds, which are only exposed at exceptionally low tides. The spiders survive in their submerged retreats for up to 19 days at a time, even foraging underwater. Because they have a lower respiration rate than other spiders, they can survive very low oxygen concentrations. Aquarium Point, Otago Harbour *

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DSC_7252 Intertidal spider (Desis marina) submerged underwater amongst encrusting sponges. This endemic spider occurs on rocky coasts all around NZ and the Chatham Islands. It has a most unusual habitat, which extends underwater from high-tide level down to below normal low tide. Underwater it finds sufficient air pockets trapped amongst the rocks and seaweeds, which are only exposed at exceptionally low tides. The spiders survive in their submerged retreats for up to 19 days at a time, even foraging underwater. Because they have a lower respiration rate than other spiders, they can survive very low oxygen concentrations. Aquarium Point, Otago Harbour *

7252 DSC Intertidal spider Desis marina submerged underwater barnacle Aquarium Point Otago Harbour