High Cockscomb

anoplarchus purpurescens

The High Cockscomb is a beautiful and colorful sea creature that lives in coral reefs. Its unique shape and vibrant colors make it a favorite among underwater explorers!

Habitat: Coral reefs in warm ocean waters

Appearance

The High Cockscomb is a bivalve mollusc with a uniquely ridged and folded shell that often appears purplish-brown. Its outer surface has distinctive, ruffled crests resembling a rooster's comb, making it easily identifiable among other oysters.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassInvertebrataOrderPerciformesFamilyStichaeidaeGenusAnoplarchus
High Cockscomb
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High Cockscomb

Category

Invertebrate

Rarity

Rare

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

High Cockscomb oysters help keep ocean water sparkling clean. Wow!

Some High Cockscombs can live for over 30 years! Wow!

Their ruffled shells create mini-habitats for other tiny creatures. Wow!

They attach to surfaces for their entire adult life. Wow!

Special abilities

Ability

Water Purifier

High Cockscomb can filter many gallons of water daily because they feed by siphoning tiny particles, cleaning their marine environment.

Ability

Rock Solid Grip

High Cockscomb has a strong 'byssus' (special threads) that helps them firmly attach to rocks and corals, resisting strong currents.

Ability

Self-building Home

High Cockscomb can grow its shell with intricate layers, allowing them to build unique, complex reef structures over time.

Measurements & details

Lifespan
30 years
Average Depth
15 m
Filtration Rate
5 L/h
Average Shell Length
10 cm
Max Shell Length
25 cm

Diet & Feeding

This oyster is a natural filter-feeder, straining tiny food particles from the surrounding water.

Primary Foods

  • phytoplankton
  • algae spores
  • detritus
  • bacteria

Foraging Method

  • Filter Feeding

Ecological connections

eats

Giant Triton

Charonia tritonis

This large sea snail preys on oysters.

eats

Common Octopus

Octopus vulgaris

Octopuses can skillfully open and eat oysters.

eats

Ornate Spiny Lobster

Panulirus ornatus

Lobsters may crush and consume oyster shells.

shelters

Neon Damselfish

Pomacentrus coelestis

Its complex shells create hiding spots for small fish.

Traits

Also known as

Coral CockscombDancing CockscombRainbow Cockscomb

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does High Cockscomb live?

30 years

What does High Cockscomb eat?

This oyster is a natural filter-feeder, straining tiny food particles from the surrounding water.

Where is High Cockscomb usually found?

Coral reefs in warm ocean waters

How does High Cockscomb hunt?

Filter Feeding

How deep can High Cockscomb go?

15 m

How much can High Cockscomb filter in an hour?

5 L/h

What is the average Shell Length of High Cockscomb?

10 cm

What is the max Shell Length of High Cockscomb?

25 cm

Snap Map

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Recent Snaps

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Where to spot

More Invertebrate