20th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Paper Nautilus Hitchhiking on Jelly Fish

A common behaviour in the deep open water is hitchhiking. Nautilus’ seem to favour jelly fishes but I have also seem them riding sticks, plastic, a simple leaf and even other animals. The exact reason for the behaviour is unclear but is believed to be protection. I have also observed them eat jelly fish but predation is certainly not the only reason.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2022
Photo Location: Anilao, Philippines
Camera: NIKON D850
Copyright: © Jorgen Rasmussen