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Stinging hydroid awaiting identification* updated Oct 09 Where seen? This colony of tiny animals is seen on some remote Northern shores. Divers may also encounter large colonies of this animal in the Southern islands. It grows on coral rubble. Features: Black thin branches (4-20cm long) with white feathery side branches. Some look like clumps of grass with long, sparsely branched or unbranched stems (10-20cm). Others are bushier with stems that have more branches and fern-like structures (1-3cm long). Burning feathers : These hydroids can inflict painful burning stings that take a long time to heal. Even a slight brush against it with bare skin will cause an immediate fiery reaction, raising painful welts that eventually itch for a long time. How to stay safe: Wear covered shoes and long pants to cover all skin exposed to water. Do not touch hydroids. Hydroid friends: Despite their stings, sometimes, tiny animals can be found living among hydroids.

Bushy pale stinging hydroids. Tuas, Apr 05 Grass-like pale stinging hydroids. Beting Bronok, Aug 05

Coils of eggs? Changi, Sep 10

Tiny tentacles. Beting Bronok, Jun 10

Tiny shrimp. Beting Bronok, Jun 10

Small transparent animals among the hydroids. Tuas, Apr 05

Beting Bronok, Jun 06

Beting Bronok, Aug 06

Raffles Lighthouse, Aug 06

*Species are difficult to positively identify without close examination.
On this website, the animals are grouped by external features for convenience of display.