Pipe Dream
Nicolas Horniblow | @nickhorniblow
Pipefish share the family Syngnathidae with seahorses, sea dragons, and pipehorses, all possessing the same tubular jaws and limited swimming ability. Like their relatives, pipefish around the world have evolved sophisticated camouflage, mimicry, and commensal relationships that help them survive in complex habitats. This spotted pipefish (Stigmatopora argus), photographed in the shallow seagrass beds of Trial Bay, Tasmania, is one such master of disguise. It orients its slender body upward, aligning effectively with the vertical blades of seagrass it threads between. By matching posture, movement, and colour, it becomes almost indistinguishable from the habitat it depends upon. Survival isn’t always about speed or strength. For some creatures, success lies in knowing exactly when—and how—to disappear.
BEAKER STREET SCIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY PRIZE
This photograph was a finalist in Beaker Street’s annual Science Photography Prize. This highly-respected prize invites amateur and professional photographers to showcase the wonders of our extraordinary part of the world — which is teeming with science and scientists. Finalist images are displayed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery during Beaker Street Festival each August, with great prizes on offer for Judges’ and People’s Choice winners.
The Beaker Street Science Photography Prize is sponsored by Pennicott Foundation — thank you crew! It would not be possible without the support of Full Gamut, Tasmania’s premier fine art printers, as well as the wonderful Tasmanian businesses who donate prizes.
