On a coral reef, one life tends to be layered on another life. Aside from the prey/predator relationship, the reef abounds with examples of symbiosis and commensalism.
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Copyright 2011 by Barry Fackler
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The cushion star (Culcita nova guineae) is a common echinoderm on Hawaiian reefs. A casual look shows nothing more than a puffy-looking "starfish". But closer examination reveals the presence of tiny sea star shrimp (Periclimenes soror) clinging to the sea star's bristly skin.
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Copyright 2012 by Barry Fackler
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These commensal shrimp live in small groups on a sea star and change color to match that of their host.
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Copyright 2012 by Barry Fackler
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