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View Full Version : Close-up image of spearer strike


Gonodactylus
12/15/2011, 11:04 AM
When we look at the raptorial appendages of spearers, the feature that stands out is the elongated, multi-barbed dactyl that impales the prey. However, just as important are the movable propodal spines that hold the fish in place once it is caught. Normally these spines lie flat folded against the propodus, but when the propodus and dactyl extend, they become erect and penetrate the prey as the dactyl closes and pulls the fish towards the stomatopod. This image of a L. sulcata catching a hum bug clearly shows a propodal spine impaling the front upper lip of the fish. 100 msec later the stomatopod and fish were out of sight down the burrow.

Roy

Jacwil
12/15/2011, 01:52 PM
"The perfect weapon!"

Thx for the pic Roy!

Kharn
12/15/2011, 04:26 PM
='[ I want a HI-Speed camera! Really nice pic as always =)

TundraGuy
12/16/2011, 09:04 AM
Yea Doc Roy I hate Hum bugs aswell.......
hehehehe