Concepts
Aim
Camouflage
• To investigate the mutualistic relationship that exists between a goby and a
Mutualism
shrimp.
Relationships
(This project requires patience and careful observation while snorkelling in
Skills
shallow water.)
Observing
You will need
underwater
Recording
• Snorkelling gear
underwater
•
Underwater slate and pencil
Attitudes
What to do
Perseverence
1.
At high tide, snorkel over the sandy patches in the lagoon (choose an area as
Fascination
close to the cay as possible). Focus your vision about 2-3 metres in front of you
Wonder
and directed down to the sand. Move slowly, making as little noise as possible.
Keep your eyes open for a pale slim little fish with large eyes lying on the sand
at the entrance to a hole.
2. Once you've found your fish, move in cautiously to about 2 metres distance. If
the fish quickly retreats down the hole, move back slightly, remain very still,
and wait for its reappearance.
3. Now, observe carefully, taking note of the following:
(a) How would you describe the reappearance of the goby (bold, watchful)?
(b) Atter the goby takes
up station at the entrance to
the hole, now long does
it take for the shrimp to appear?
(c) When
the shrimp does appear, is it involved in any
particular activity?
(d) Does the goby appear to be involved in any activity besides observation?
(e) Make
a
sudden movement towards the hole.
What happens?
(It would be a good idea to copy these questions on
to your slate before you
leave the beach).
Questions to consider
4. What appears to be the relationship between the
goby and the shrimp?
5. Would survival be any more difficult for either the goby or
shrimp it
each
lived a solitary life?
6. What particular adaptation does the shrimp have to
fulfil its role in
the
relationship? What adaptations do you think the goby possesses to
fulfil its
role
in the relationship?
28.
The goby and shrimp
1/2 hr
•
FROM PROJECT REEF ED
©
Great Barrier Reel Marine Park Authority
