This week’s MotD theme: Blue
British scientist and underwater photographer wannabe, Emma Camp, of Coastal and Coral Culture, photographed this blue beauty known as a Blue Button Jellyfish (Porpita porpita), which is about the size of a human fingertip.
I love everything about this little guy: the intricate pattern in its center with its varying shades of brown, the darker blue circular rim that outlines the body, and most of all the delicate blue tentacles branching out in varying sizes. What a beautiful mandala it makes!
About this fascinating creature, Emma writes:
Porpita porpita are hermaphrodites and have two main body structures. The first part is the float which is a round disc like shape and is a golden-brown color. It is typically 1.5 inches wide or less, and has a single mouth underneath the float which is used for both the intake of nutrients and the dispersal of wastes. The second part is the hydroid colony (jellyfish like tentacles) that are bright blue, turquoise or yellow. Each strand is covered in branchlets and end in knobs of stinging calls called nematocysts.
About her interest in coral reefs:
My love for the ocean and coral reefs stems from my childhood travels with my family. Our family adventures opened my eyes to different cultures and allowed me to experience firsthand the natural beauty of the Earth’s oceans. Ever since I have wanted to learn more about marine life and find ways to conserve its biodiversity and beauty.
Inspiration for Today
Emma’s blue button jellyfish reminds us that beauty can be found in the littlest of things.
Happy Coloring!
If you would want your mandala or your idea for a mandala to be considered for the “Mandala of the Day”, read about how on the Participate page. It’s easy! Or recommend one you’ve seen via my Contact page.
Mandala of the Day 