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“If in doubt, gross them out!”

It’s a phrase I’ve said many times at my aquarium day job, usually while explaining my techniques for engaging with members of the public. And I stand by it to this day, because there are many creatures of the sea (and beyond) who resort to rather…..

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14th February 2026

Under a microscope anything can look beautifully alien.
In this case, we have an assortment of the sclerites and ossicles (i.e. hard bony parts) that support the bodies of corals, sea cucumbers and sea sponges, usually in the form of many small segments.
(Negative phase contrast was used to make these pieces appear brighter and more visible)