Scuba Dive

Christmas Tree Worm
Spirobranchus giganteus

These cheeky little fellows possess well-developed nervous systems complete with a central brain.  The two feathery “Christmas Trees” (aka. Madonna’s Bra) are used to capture dinner and also to breathe.  The worms burrow themselves into coral, moving only to extend or retract their trees when something scary, like myself, swims by.  They are found in tropical waters world wide, and are a favorite of photographers because they don’t swim away. 

I have found that if you approach without casting a shadow over them, their trees will stay up long enough for a memorable picture.  You’ll only get one, however, as the camera’s flash will quickly send them looking for cover.