Coral Triangle Day 2025 — 9 Rare Sea Creatures You’ll Find In This Biodiversity Hotspot

Published by: ABP Live Lifestyle
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1. Psychedelic Frogfish:

The psychedelic frogfish is a master of disguise. It has swirling patterns which makes it camouflage easily. The quirky appeal of this creature, makes it a surreal sight for divers who are lucky enough to spot it.

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2. Mandarinfish:

The mandarinfish flaunts its blues, oranges, and greens in swirling patterns. These creatures with a striking palette are often seen during dusk mating dances in coral-rich areas.

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3. Weedy Scorpionfish:

The weedy scorpionfish blends seamlessly with the sea floor. It has leaf-like appendages and venomous spines that make it captivating and cautionary.

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4. Mola Mola:

It is the world's heaviest bony fish and looks like half a fish with wings. It occasionally cruises through deeper waters in the Coral Triangle, basking near the surface to warm up after deep dives.

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5. Flamboyant Cuttlefish:

Small but spectacular, the flamboyant cuttlefish puts on a light show when it's threatened. Pulsating electric purples, reds, and yellows, it’s one of the most dramatic creatures of the Coral Triangle.

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6. Hawksbill Turtle:

One of the most iconic yet endangered species in the region, the hawksbill turtles glide through reefs and feed on sponges. They have beautifully patterned shells that make them a target for illegal trade.

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7. Peacock Mantis Shrimp:

The mantis shrimp is small but mighty. This rainbow coloured creature has one of the fastest and most powerful punches in the animal kingdom. It's vibrant hues and fierce personality make it a reef favourite.

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8. Banggai Cardinalfish:

Endemic to Indonesia’s Banggai Islands, this striking little fish is popular in aquariums but critically endangered in the wild. It has a silver body with black stripes and elegant fins that makes it a gem of the Triangle.

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9. Leafy Sea Dragon:

Leafy sea dragons have leafy appendages that help them blend seamlessly into seaweed and coral environment. Found in the cooler southern edges of the Coral Triangles, they are the true master of disguise.

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