Hobbies And Interests
Alligator Gar
Viewed head on, the alligator gar looks like another species of alligator; however, this rare specimen belongs to the class of fishes, with no close relation to the crocodilians. Ironically, alligators constitute a food source for the gar. The gar preys using ambush techniques, hastily gobbling up crustaceans, fish, reptiles, mammals and bird species that unfortunately cross its path. Its most distinguishing feature, a prominent jaw, houses two rows of sharp, formidable teeth adapted to grabbing and puncturing prey. Alligator gars grow up to 2 m in length and weigh close to 45 kg. Only seven species of gar remain on Earth, relegated mainly to the warm rivers near the Gulf of Mexico.
Elysia Chlorotica
A certain sea slug, Elysia chlorotica, looks like it is bearing a leaf on its back. The slug reflects a union -- in both form and function -- between the plant and animal kingdoms. Elysia specimens consume a specific type of algae, incorporating the chloroplasts that pepper the interiors of plant cells and convert sunlight, carbon dioxide and water into an energy source. The sea slug's DNA includes specific genes that enable it to use the chloroplast independent of the original algal cell. If fed algae for two weeks, the slugs would not need to eat for the rest of their lives -- a mere year-long existence.
Leafy Sea Dragon
The leafy sea dragon, another animal that resembles plant life, lurks among the brown kelp off the coast of Australia. A relative of the seahorse, the leafy sea dragon grows to a length of about 30 cm; however, unlike the more common seahorse that moves vertically through the water, the sea dragon swims clumsily in a sideways manner. Underwater explorers may not even notice the sea dragon because of the leafy extensions resembling seaweed covering its body. An armor consisting of rigid plates and spiny protrusions discourages predatory marine creatures from munching on the sea dragon. Local Australian governments seek to prevent those who wish to embellish their aquariums with these distinctive life forms from collecting these creatures.
Okapi
A prime example of the seemingly contrary aspects of nature, the okapi offers zoogoers a glimpse of Mother Nature's idea of a little joke. A cousin of the giraffe, the okapi appears to be some sort of equestrian species, a merging of horse and zebra. Water-resistant, soft, dark fur enveloping the front half of the animal keeps rain from penetrating its skin. The zebra-like stripes on the back half camouflage the okapi in the part-sun, part-shade environment of the central African rainforest. Okapis normally eat about 20 kg of plant material a day, lapping up leaves with long, grasping tongues. Okapis use keen senses to detect the presence of others of their species by tracking sticky substances left in the footfalls of those passing previously or the odor of urine sprayed by males.
Piglet Squid
The piglet squid resembles an aquatic, miniature pig, even in the pinkish tinge of its skin. Younger squids appear white or translucent while older squids or those living in deeper waters possess rosier complexions. The bloated body and apparent snout contribute to the squid's resemblance to porkers. A group of tentacles adorn the head above the snout while large, cartoon-like eyes peer out from the front of the animal's head. Three known species exist, although some zoologists suggest that as many as 11 species of Helicocranchia inhabit the tropical and subtropical waters of the world.