About The Shot
New Providence, Bahamas/ 2024
The Flamingo Tongue (Cyphoma gibbosum) is a striking marine snail found in the warm, shallow waters of the Caribbean, including The Bahamas. Typically growing up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length, this small but vibrant mollusk is known for its yellow and orange coloration, with intricate black markings resembling a flamingo's tongue. It inhabits coral reefs and seagrass beds, feeding primarily on soft corals, especially gorgonians. The Flamingo Tongue, unlike many other snails, feeds on live corals rather than detritus. It uses a specialized organ, called a radula, to scrape the coral’s tissue, absorbing nutrients. This colorful snail is often seen slowly grazing on the reef, adding to the vibrant underwater ecosystem. However, its dependence on healthy coral for food makes it vulnerable to coral degradation, highlighting the need to protect these delicate ecosystems.