Labidochromis caeruleus is another example of the splendour to be found in Lake Malawi. There are a number of colour varieties of Labidochromis caeruleus - ranging from yellow, blue to white. This specimen pictured is a subdominant male and thus not showing off his true colours. Like most cichlids of this type they tend to be aggressive towards other members of the family.

In the sea a number of animals have earned the reputation of being harmful. Indeed, some denizens, such as sharks, stingrays, scorpionfish, sea snakes, and some jellyfish, can be potentially dangerous to swimmers or divers. In order to survive and reproduce, many sea creatures have evolved protective mechanisms against other predators. Some inject venom through biting or stinging, while others deliver electric shocks. Normally, the potential danger to man is minimal, but even small creatures can inflict severe wounds if mistreated. I learned this painful lesson one summer during a collecting dive in the Coral Sea.

The Boxer Shrimp, also known as the Coral Banded Shrimp, is very popular amongst marine aquarists. The contrast of the red and white bands is beautiful, making this one of the most striking of shrimps. It has large pincers compared to some other shrimps of its size. It is quite aggressive in terms of not allowing other fishes or invertebrates (of the crawly variety), into striking distance. It wards off intruders by stretching out its pincers, ready to attack. This in most cases deters any further advancement by the invader - under aquarium conditions - unless the Boxer is about to become dinner.