Thrown Away By The Kelongs

Pasir Ris Park East, Singapore January 2013 Merlion Wayfarer was out exploring the shores again during the January low tides. This time round, she went eastwards to Pasir Ris Park. She was surprised to see the condition of the beach. At the edges of the mud-sand composite beach, there was about a metre of foam at the incoming tide. She recalled past news reports on the beach: "NEA's review finds water at Pasir Ris beach not safe for swimming"...

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Low Tide Among The Rocks

North-East Coast Singapore January 2013    This is low tide at a North-Eastern beach. The shore consists mainly of rocks and stones on a coarse sand bed.    And this is a common scene at many of our coastal shores during weekends, including this one - Children exploring the rocks, catching fish, and sometimes running about barefoot at low tide.  However, sometimes dangers lurk within shores at low tides....

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Symbiosis Of A Snapping Kind

North-East Coast Singapore January 2013 Alpheidae is a family of Snapping Shrimp characterized by having asymmetrical claws, the larger of which is typically capable of producing a loud snapping sound. Other common names of these species include Pistol Shrimp or Alpheid Shrimp. The shrimp are considered to be a major source of noise in the ocean, and can  interfere with sonar and underwater communication when in colonies. (Wow!)  ...

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A Fish Called Toad

North-East Coast Singapore January 2013   Toadfish (Batrachoididae) are really scary. The first you see of them in murky waters are their two red eyes gleaming back at you. But then, sometimes, you may not even see the two eyes. Maybe only one. Like a tiny red ruby. Toadfishes are usually scaleless, with eyes set high on large heads. Their mouths are also large, and often decorated with barbels and skin flaps. They are generally drab...

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Bristles That Sting

North-East Coast Singapore January 2013    Bristle Worms (Polychaete) are segmented worms belonging to the phylum Annelida (segmented worms). They are found in all oceans from shallow intertidal reefs to deep depths. They live on or burrow into sand, mud, shell debris, rocks and coral rubble. Some eat their way through muddy sediments, some eat algae and others are accomplished predators. Their common predators are small fish, crabs...

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Brittles Under Stones

North-East Coast Singapore January 2013 Brittle Stars belong to the phylum Echinodermata and and sub-class Ophiuroidea which has about 2,100 known species, of which 300 brittle star species can be found in shallow tropical waters. They get their name from their ability to drop off their arms, for example, when grabbed by a fish. A new arm will regrow. Although often found on Singapore shores, Brittle Stars are seldom seen as they are active...

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The Rainbow That Ants Drop Off From

East, Singapore July & August 2012 Merlion Wayfarer found the only Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree (Eucalyptus Deglupta, Mindanao Gum / Rainbow Eucalyptus / Rainbow Gum) in Singapore! Located in a small cosy wood, it was tucked away in a little corner of the park with just a worn out sign denoting its "Heritage Tree" status. The Heritage Tree signboard which was first spotted in July and replaced with a brand new plate in August 2012... What's...

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