Landlocked Mermaid

December is a time to look back and reflect on the year. So, I am taking the opportunity to look back on all the critters featured on #MCotM this year! February: Giant Clam They live in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, found in tropical waters and reefs like the Great Barrier Reef. They like warm waters, no deeper than 20m (66ft), so it is nice and light for them. This is because they have a symbiotic relationship with algae, who rely on photosynthesis for food. Giant clams are the biggest species of clam, growing up to 120cm (47") and weighing up to 200kg (440lbs). It is believed they can live up to 100 years. They are, unfortunately, being hunted to extinction by humans - for profit and food. It is the only species of clam which cannot completely close its shell. March: Nautilus The nautilus is a type of cephalopod, which is the same family as squid and octopus. They have been around since there were dinosaurs on the planet, making them something of a ...

This #MCotM is going to be a little different as I am still not quite 100%. As much as I would love to do an in depth study of this month's creature, I just don't have the brain power for it. But I can squeeze out 10 fun facts for you. So enough about how crappy I am, here is the creature for July... Mantis Shrimp Photo from Fact Animal Fun Facts   Mantis shrimp are colourful little things. Their colours include blues, greens, reds, and oranges. They are usually between 5-17cm (2-7 inches) long, though some species can be larger. Mantis shrimp have incredible eyesight and the ability to move each eye independently. They can also see in ultraviolet and polarised light. They attack foes and prey 50 times quicker than the blink of an eye. Their punch packs the power of a .22 calibur bullet. Mantis shrimp are either Spearers or Smashers. Spearers have spiny appendages for stabbing prey or foes. Meanwhile, Smashers have club-like appendages for smashing prey...