Creatures of Coral

A mass of new species have been discovered in the Coral Sea Islands, an overseas territory of Australia. The creatures all live around the Lizard & Heron islands.

Those areas are quite popular with scuba divers, which is surprising that they haven't been found before. The new species of coral and crustaceans help a survey to record every living thing in the ocean.

The biggest discoveries include new species of Taniads (above) and Bristle Worms. Taniads can have claws as long as their bodies!

Dr. Ron O'Dor, a chief scientist, said, "Amazingly colourful corals and fishes on reefs have long dazzled divers, but our eyes are just opening to the astonishing richness of other life forms in these habitats."

I think this is brilliant news. Let's hope we have these creatures forever.

A Craze of Cute

Sugar Gliders are the new pet craze in the United Kingdom. However, this is not a good thing as many people aren't skilled enough to look after them.

The mammals originate from Australia & the island of New Guinea. They need to be fed live insects, are nocturnal and need to be with another Sugar Glider. The marsupials can become blind from bright light and deaf from radios & televisions. Also, most British homes aren't damp or hot enough for them to survive.

Siân Bailey breeds the creatures, but admits they are a lot harder to keep than average pets.

The RSPCA has released this warning. I hope that no Sugar Glider gets mistreated and that the RSPCA don't have to do too many rescues.