From April to June of 2011, a multidisciplinary expedition explored the marine diversity of the northern Philippines. Rich Mooi, Curator and Chairman of the Department of Invertebrate Zoology & Geology, California Academy of Sciences, found more than 70 different species of sea urchins, ranging from the familiar globose sea urchins to sand dollars. He selected 14 images to share his findings.
These images show some of the more spectacular species, and only hint at the work that still needs to be done to conserve the rich biodiversity of the region.
More:
New York Times Scientist at Work blog by Rich Mooi.
Part Two of this post featuring star fish, sea lillies and more.