#polynesia underwater

[sohannabarberaesque]

What Peter Potamus wouldn't give for some quality time with some native diver gals in Polynesia Uncharted!

[pangeen]

" Buddies in Motion " //© Nina Moysi

[travelbinge]

By Doctorbeyondborders

Mo'orea, French Polynesia

[tomub]

The wave at Teahupo’o is just as magical below the surface as it is above.

Via 📷 @timmckenna

[sitting-on-me-bum]

“Shark Trio”

Blacktip reef sharks

Shot in South Fakarava, French Polynesia

by Renee Capozzola

2022 Underwater Photographer Of The Year Competition

[bethanythebogwitch]

Welcome to a topsy-turvy Wet Beast Wednesday where I'm discussing one of my favorite cnidarians, the upside-down jellyfish. These are 8 species of jellyfish in the genus Cassiopea, which is the only member of the family Cassiopeidae. What makes these jellies notable is the fact that they spend most of their time lying upside-down on the seafloor.

(image: an upside-down jellyfish swimming. It has a light brown and white striped bell and multiple tentacles that are tuck and white. The tentacles branch and are lined with feathery, light brown structures)

While the majority of jellyfish are predators who drift through the water at the mercy of the currents, upside-down jellyfish have essentially become farmers. Their eight branched oral arms that contain symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae. These algae are photosynthetic and live in a mutualistic relationship with the jellyfish. The jellyfish gets food from the zooxanthellae and they get protection from predators and a place to live. Upside-down jellyfish can survive entirely on the nutrients produced by the zooxanthellae, but they will still feed on zooplankton and other small prey. Upside-down jellies are not the only jellyfish to utilize zooxanthellae, many other species also survive primarily on their symbiotic algae, but they are the only ones to have adapted the benthic lifestyle. They can reach a bell diameter of up to 25 cm (10 inches), or as one source for this stated: about the size of a pie pan.

(image: multiple upside-down jellyfish lying on sand. They are ov various sizes and mostly light brown, but have thicker, green tentacles sticking op)

Upside-down jellyfish are found in warm coastal waters in Florida and the Caribbean and in Micronesia, Melanesia, and parts of Polynesia. They require shallow waters to allow enough light to reach their zooxanthellae and are usually found on shady or muddy bottoms. They are highly associated with mangroves and may play an important role in the mangrove habitats by mixing the water to recirculate oxygen and nutrients. They are rarely found alone, instead congregating in large groups that can cover portions of the seafloor. They attach by using their bells as suction cups and rhythmically pulse using the edges of the bell. This pulsing forces water over the gills and can force zooplankton into the stinging cells to become food. Stung prey will fall on the oral tentacles, where it is broken down into fragments that are then intaken through the numerous tiny oral openings on the tentacles. Interestingly, some species have cycles of reduced movement, which is believed to be the first known example of sleep in an animal without a central nervous system. While upside-down jellies can swim, they will usually only do so to escape predators or if their environment becomes unsuitable.

(image: an upside-down jellyfish swimming. The majority of its body is light brown, but it has many tentacles that are dark blue and outlined in white)

While a very neat thing to see underwater, many snorkelers avoid upside-down jellyfish due to a phenomenon called stinging water. This is when people will receive the symptoms of a sting by the jellyfish without actually touching it. While the cause of this was a mystery for a long time, it was solved when a 2020 paper was published in Communications Biology by Ames et al. The scientists discovered that upside-down jellies release clumps of mucus into the water. This mucus is filled with zooxanthellae and stinging cells and many of these clumps also have ciliated cells that allow for limited swimming. These clumps, named cassiosomes, are the source of the stinging water. The paper, titled "cassiosomes are stinging-cell structures in the mucus of the upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea xamachana" speculated that the cassiosomes are used for defense and feeding. The cassiosomes could be released to sting a potential predator from a distance, discouraging it from approaching the jellyfish. Presumably snorkelers trigger this defense when they swim over the jellies, resulting in stinging water. They could also be used to catch prey as zooplankton killed by the stinging cells would have a high likelihood of falling onto the jelly that released them. Because the cassiosomes have zooanthellae in them, they could survive for likely up to several days after release.

(image: a microscope image of three cassiosomes. They are irregularly-shaped blobs somewhat similar to popcorn. They are a dark color with grey outlines. Spots of green algae and white stinging cells dot their surface)

Upside-down jellyfish are threatened by habitat loss as many mangrove forests are torn down for development. They are also threatened by pollution. They are not considered dangerous to humans. The sting of an upside-down jellyfish can result in mild to severe rashes and itching, but is not lethal.

(gif: a lone, light brown upside-down jellyfish on black sediment. The edge of its flat, circular bell regularly pulse upward to move air over its gills and tentacles. This one's pulsing has slowed, which is speculated to be the result of it going through its sleep cycle)

[tropic-havens]

Humpback whale underwater in Moorea, French Polynesia

[weirdestbooks]

Sammy and Sammy Junior (Wattpad | Ao3)

For @aloha-from-angel

Tonga’s favorite time of the month was when it was time for her and the rest of Polynesia to meet on their islands and catch up. It allowed them to be a little human, and despite all the stupid rivalries and that one arson incident, it was always an enjoyable time.

This month, American Samoa was hosting and was planning on taking them to his national park, as well as trying and failing to keep them from embarrassing him in front of his crush.

Tonga had arrived a day early, along with Māori and Samoa. Now, they were looking for American Samoa, hoping to catch him with his crush so they could embarrass him and meet the person who had caught his attention.

She didn’t expect to find what they did.

When they finally managed to track down American Samoa, they didn’t find him with his crushed, but instead found him messing around with a bespeckled man on the beach. The man was tall and looked similar to American Samoa, but then again, you could always find so many similarities between a personification and their people in terms of people.

“Tahi, do you know who that is?” Samoa asked. Tonga shot her an annoyed look.

“Why would I know one of Malosi’s people?” Tonga asked. Māori furrowed his eyebrows.

“I don’t know if he is one of Malosi’s people. He looks familiar, but I can’t remember from where. Maybe he’s an outlier?” Māori asked, turning to face Tonga, the self-proclaimed family tree keeper.

“What kinda outlier is that tall, Kahurangi?” Tonga responded, raising an eyebrow, “They are all tiny, even the largest ones. Even–”

Tonga cut herself off as they got closer to American Samoa and the strange man, as they began to overhear snippets of their conversation and one work in particular.

Tama. The Samoan word for father.

American Samoa called the strange man dad.

He wasn’t one of his people or an outlier.  

That man was the United States of America.

Tonga quickly ducked her head, taking care not to look at America any more than she already had, and she could see Samoa do the same as one of her wings covered Māori’s face. They all understood how many countries viewed their human faces and did not want to risk causing him distress.

But Tonga could still feel the tension that had suddenly appeared.

They stumbled onto one of the greatest secrets of one of the most paranoid men in the world.

This could only end poorly.

Panic was the only thing America felt as he stared at the group of people in front of him. He dimly registered his son talking to him, but it sounded muffled like he was underwater. Fear gripping tightly at his soul, America did the only thing he could and vanished back to his apartment, struggling to start his breathing exercises as panicked tears poured down his face.

They had seen his face. They had heard American Samoa call him dad.

They knew what he looked like.

America was fine with Hawai’i knowing, as she was one of his states, and he was okay with American Samoa showing the other Polynesians his human face, as that was his choice. Still, America never wanted any Polynesian nations other than those two to see his face. He knew American Samoa didn’t do this on purpose; their meeting wasn’t supposed to be until tomorrow, but the paranoid part of himself wondered like it always had.

His face was his safety net, the protection that allowed him to be a little human and escape the standards and obligations the United States of America was under.

Now, he was at risk of losing that.

What was he going to do?

—————————

American Samoa stared at the place where his father had just been before turning around and facing the Polynesians standing there: Tonga, Samoa, and Māori.

“You can look now.” American Samoa said, voice shocked as he tried to process what had happened.

“Was that–” Tonga began before American Samoa cut her off, panic rushing through him. 

“You can’t tell anyone!” He begged, “Please! Fa'amolemole!”

American Samoa trusted them; he did, but he had to be sure, for his Tamā was so afraid of being vulnerable that even using his human form in the first place made him anxious.

“Tupua, please,” American Samoa begged again, not liking the silence that fell upon his first request.

“Okay, I won’t. We won’t, Malosi. It’s okay.” Tonga said, meeting his eyes, as Māori nodded in what American Samoa hoped was agreement, his eyes distant.

“Tuafafine?” American Samoa asked, turning to his sister, who looked stricken.

“Tuagane, why is your father not white?” Samoa asked, causing American Samoa to give her an odd look.

“Cause his people aren’t? Talia, he’s been mixed for longer than I’ve been alive.” American Samoa answered. Samoa looked furious at that.

”Does that mean that all this time—“

”Britain’s been mixed and probably not white passing this entire time? Yeah, most likely. He’s a hypocrite and a controlling bastard. We know this.” American Samoa chimed in. Māori sighed deeply.

”I thought as much.” He muttered, getting a surprised look from Tonga.

”Kahurangi, you knew this?” Tonga asked. Māori shrugged.

”I had suspicions, but very few empires will prove it.” Māori said, “They keep a lot close to their chest. And any of them confessing they were white was probably a death sentence for them. It makes sense, though. Haven’t you all noticed your human forms change over the years? Why wouldn’t America’s? Being an empire doesn’t make him immune to that. He’s still a country same as us.”

“Yeah…I…it’s just…” Tonga sputtered.

“Not something you ever thought about?” American Samoa asked. Tonga nodded. 

“People rarely do.” American Samoa said with a shrug, “And Tama doesn’t advertise anything involving his human form, even if it might make him more likable to certain people. He’s…I think you all know that for all his strength, my tama is scared of many things.”

“That’s because America understands that his power doesn’t make him infallible, just a target. He’s not an idiot.” Māori said, “That’s why he panicked when we came here. He thought he was safe 'cause we weren’t supposed to be here yet, and now he feels exposed because we accidentally saw some of his safeguard.”

“Yeah…yeah, that’s it exactly, Tupua. I can talk to Tama and hopefully soothe his worries, but he will probably want to talk to you about it all.” American Samoa said, shifting his feet as he prepared to bring himself to his Tama’s main house, hoping he would be there.

“We’re ready to talk to him if he needs to,” Tonga said.

“And we won’t say anything. Make sure he knows that, tuagane.” Samoa said. American Samoa nodded.

“I will. Fa'afetai tele.” American Samoa said before rushing off to find his dad before he spiraled even more, now that Unorganized Territory wasn’t there to help coax him out of his head.

God, this was a mess.

[thecreaturecodex]

Ponaturi

Image © Traci Shepherd, accessed at Arcane Beasts and Critters here

[We are on the last leg of the World Tour, visiting this time Oceania. I've done a fair number of Australian monsters through the years, and I do want to do at least one or two more. But I'm going to be paying more attention to the cultures of places I haven't done many monsters with before, like the various islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia, as well as larger land masses like New Guinea or Aotearoa/New Zealand. The ponaturi is a Maori monster. English sources usually refer to it as a goblin in the sense of "otherworldly humanoid; malevolent", but I was inspired by this art to make it a goblin in the post-Tolkien sense as well. The connection to necromancy is from the story of Rata specifically.]

Ponaturi CR 2 CE Humanoid (goblinoid) This humanoid is rather shorter than a man, with sallow slimy skin and enormous red eyes. Its hands and feet are webbed, and it carries a spear and a strange bone fetish.

The ponaturi are amphibious goblinoids. Sunlight is lethal to them, so they remain below the waves during the day, and emerge from the water to raid coastal communities at night. They have a taste for fresh fruits and vegetables, which are highly exotic to them, but still happily kill anyone who gets in their way. Ponaturi have a talent for necromancy, which they hone using totems created from the bones of other humanoids. A ponaturi cannot make a bone totem with bones freely given; only the act of stealing the bones prepares them for the ritual of attunement.

Of the various species of goblinoids, ponaturi are perhaps the most magically gifted, and they embrace magic in their culture. Their leaders are typically spellcasters and may be sorcerers, clerics or oracles. Powers of death, water and darkness are favored. Wizards are rare not because of any taboo against reading (as is common in goblins), but because ink and paper are poor materials to use underwater. Those ponaturi wizards that do exist etch their spells on coral, shell or bone. The ability to command and create undead creatures is seen as a mark of high prestige, and the most influential ponaturi often have a retinue of zombies or skeletons acting as their minions.

A ponaturi stands about four feet tall. Their skin tones range from the yellows and greens common to goblinkind to more human-like hues, and they notably have hair on their heads.

Ponaturi             CR 2 XP 600 CE Medium humanoid (aquatic, goblinoid) Init +2; Senses darkvision 120 ft., low-light vision, Perception +6 Defense AC 15, touch 13, flat-footed 12 (+2 Dex, +1 dodge, +2 natural) hp 18 (4d8) Fort +1, Ref +6, Will +1; +2 vs. necromancy, undead Defensive Abilities deep diver, grave touched, negative energy affinity; Weakness vulnerability to sunlight Offense Speed 30 ft., swim 40 ft. Melee spear +4 (1d8+1), bite -1 (1d4) or bite +4 (1d4+1) Ranged javelin +5 (1d6+1) Spell-like Abilities CL 5th, concentration+6 (+10 casting defensively) 3/day—chill touch (DC 13), doom (DC 13), ray of enfeeblement (DC 13) Statistics Str 12, Dex 15, Con 10, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 13 Base Atk +3; CMB +4; CMD 17 Feats Combat Casting, Dodge Skills Knowledge (arcana) +2, Perception +6, Spellcraft +2, Stealth +7, Swim +10; Racial Modifiers +4 Perception, +4 Stealth Languages Common, Goblin SQ amphibious, bone fetish Ecology Environment aquatic Organization solitary, band (2-6), squad (7-12 plus 1 2nd-4th level spellcaster) or clan (24-240 plus 1 2nd-4th level spellcaster per 10 individuals and 1-4 5th-9th level spellcasters) Treasure standard (spear, 3 javelins, other treasure) Special Abilities Bone Fetish (Su) A ponaturi carries a fetish made from humanoid bones that is attuned to them specifically. A ponaturi with a bone fetish gains a +1 to its caster level and spell save DCs for all spells and spell-like abilities of the necromancy school. This bonus is included in the statistics above. If a ponaturi’s fetish is destroyed or stolen, it can craft a new one with an 8 hour ritual. Deep Diver (Ex) A ponaturi is immune to cold and pressure damage from water depth. Grave Touched (Ex) A ponaturi gains a +2 racial modifier to saving throws against all necromancy spells and the supernatural or extraordinary abilities of the undead. Vulnerability to Sunlight (Ex) A ponaturi takes 1 point of Constitution damage each round it is in direct sunlight.

[dudewhoabides]

A surfer battles with the underwater turbulence created by the ‘heaviest wave in the world’ – Teahupo’o – which translate as ‘place of skulls’, French Polynesia. Photograph: Ben Thouard

[sohannabarberaesque]

Peter Potamus is doubtless the first to admit, acknowledge even, that the uncharted Polynesians probably have the right idea when it comes to swimming among dolphins: Actually swimming among them in Nature, preferably naked, and letting them introduce you to some interesting underwater experiences and adventures. Is it any wonder such peoples have perhaps the most perfect display of the dolphin/human interrelationship bound to make Flipper jealous?

[pangeen]

" A Moment to Remember " //© Kelsey Williamson

[poetrythreesixfive]

Whalesongs

And when humpbacks sing—

in a voice that sounds like

a cross between Gregorian chant

and a haunting owl—

their songs can carry for miles underwater,

and often continue for hours.

Baby humpbacks whisper to their mothers.

Researchers have uncovered that songs

spread between humpback populations:

whales in Australia share their songs

with pods in French Polynesia,

who then pass those songs along

to others in Ecuador.

                       -A found poem, in an article

                       written by Devi Lockwood,

                       January 22, 2023

[avneesh10-blog]

Ultimate Guide to South Pacific Island Hopping Adventure

# Ultimate Guide to South Pacific Island Hopping Adventure

Introduction

Have you ever dreamt of turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and the allure of exotic cultures? The South Pacific beckons, offering a paradise of stunning beauty and unparalleled island adventures. Embark on a journey of discovery through the enchanting world of South Pacific Island Hopping, where each destination promises a unique blend of natural wonders, rich history, and warm hospitality.This ultimate guide delves into the serenity and excitement of exploring the South Pacific archipelagos, providing you with a treasure trove of tips, insights, and inspirations for a truly unforgettable island-hopping experience.

Discovering the South Pacific

Understanding the South PacificThe South Pacific region encompasses a vast expanse of ocean dotted with dazzling islands, each boasting its own distinct charm and allure. From the volcanic landscapes of Fiji to the pristine atolls of French Polynesia, the South Pacific offers a tapestry of natural beauty waiting to be explored.Choosing Your Islands- Fiji: Known for its vibrant coral reefs and lush interiors, Fiji offers a perfect blend of tropical relaxation and cultural immersion. - French Polynesia: Home to Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea, French Polynesia entices with its overwater bungalows, crystal-clear lagoons, and romantic sunsets. - Vanuatu: A paradise for adventure seekers, Vanuatu boasts active volcanoes, rugged landscapes, and vibrant local markets. - Cook Islands: With its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches, the Cook Islands provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. - Research: Thoroughly research each destination's attractions, accommodations, and transportation options. - Budget: Set a budget that includes flights, accommodations, activities, and meals. - Timing: Consider the best time to visit each island based on weather, crowds, and seasonal events. - Light Clothing: Pack breathable fabrics suitable for tropical climates. - Sun Protection: Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the strong sunlight. - Swimwear: Essential for enjoying the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. - Ferries: An affordable and scenic way to travel between islands, with regular schedules and varying comfort levels. - Domestic Flights: Ideal for covering longer distances and reaching remote islands. - Cruises: All-inclusive cruise packages offer the convenience of exploring multiple islands without the hassle of planning logistics. - Resorts: Luxurious beachfront resorts pamper guests with upscale amenities and stunning views. - Boutique Hotels: Intimate and charming, boutique hotels provide a personalized touch to your island-hopping adventure. - Homestays and Guesthouses: Immerse yourself in the local culture by staying with welcoming hosts in cozy accommodations. - Local Cuisine: Indulge in freshly caught seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes that reflect the diverse culinary heritage of each island. - Cultural Experiences: Participate in traditional ceremonies, dance performances, and handicraft workshops to gain insight into the local way of life. - Language: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to connect with the residents and show respect for their customs. - Snorkeling: Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life just below the surface. - Scuba Diving: Delve into the depths to discover underwater caves, shipwrecks, and majestic sea creatures. - Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Glide through crystal-clear waters, or venture into hidden coves and mangrove forests for a tranquil paddling experience. - Hiking: Trek through lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and rugged terrains to witness breathtaking views and encounter endemic wildlife. - Cultural Tours: Visit historical sites, museums, and local communities to gain a deeper understanding of the island's heritage and traditions. - Adventure Sports: From zip-lining and quad biking to waterfall rappelling, the South Pacific offers a plethora of adrenaline-pumping activities for thrill-seekers. - Reduce Waste: Opt for reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and eco-friendly toiletries to minimize plastic consumption. - Support Local Communities: Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans and dine at locally-owned restaurants to contribute to the local economy. - Respect the Environment: Follow designated trails, avoid touching or feeding wildlife, and adhere to conservation guidelines to protect the fragile ecosystems of the South Pacific islands. - Marine Conservation: Join reef clean-up activities, coral planting projects, and marine wildlife monitoring programs to support the preservation of the ocean ecosystem. - Sustainable Accommodations: Choose eco-friendly resorts and lodges that prioritize energy efficiency, waste reduction, and environmental stewardship. - Cultural Preservation: Engage in cultural exchange programs, volunteer at local schools or community projects, and learn about indigenous traditions to promote cultural sustainability.

Conclusion

In wrapping up this comprehensive guide to South Pacific Island Hopping, we've explored the myriad experiences, adventures, and cultural encounters that await you in this enchanting region. By embarking on an island-hopping journey through the South Pacific, you'll not only create unforgettable memories but also contribute to the preservation of these pristine natural environments and vibrant cultures.Whether you're seeking relaxation on palm-fringed beaches, thrilling water sports, immersive cultural experiences, or sustainable travel initiatives, the South Pacific offers a treasure trove of delights for every traveler. So pack your bags, set sail across turquoise waters, and immerse yourself in the tropical splendor of the South Pacific islands.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best islands to visit in the South Pacific for first-time travelers?For first-time travelers to the South Pacific, popular destinations like Fiji, French Polynesia (Tahiti, Bora Bora), and the Cook Islands offer a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and warm hospitality.2. Is island hopping in the South Pacific budget-friendly?While the South Pacific is known for its luxury resorts, there are budget-friendly accommodation options, transportation choices, and activities that cater to travelers with varying budgets.3. What is the best time of year to visit the South Pacific islands?The best time to visit the South Pacific islands varies by destination, but generally falls during the region's dry season, which typically runs from May to October, offering pleasant weather and fewer chances of tropical storms.4. Are there any health precautions to consider when traveling to the South Pacific?Travelers to the South Pacific should consult with their healthcare provider regarding vaccinations, mosquito-borne illnesses, and water safety precautions to ensure a healthy and safe journey.5. How can travelers contribute to sustainable tourism in the South Pacific?Travelers can support sustainable tourism in the South Pacific by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, engaging in responsible wildlife viewing practices, and supporting local conservation initiatives and cultural preservation efforts.

Read the full article

[mattferrer15]

Bora Bora

Bora Bora, nestled in French Polynesia's South Pacific, is a paradise unrivaled in its natural beauty and serenity. Known for its stunning turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and iconic overwater bungalows, Bora Bora offers a retreat like no other. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Bora Bora offers a range of activities for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Snorkeling or diving in the coral gardens reveal a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and coral formations, while sunset cruises and romantic dinners on the beach set the stage for unforgettable moments. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape in a luxurious overwater villa or a thrilling underwater adventure, Bora Bora promises a dreamlike experience that lingers in the memory long after leaving its shores.