Reflection: Lutfir Rahman

I did not realize how rich the biodiversity in Pulau Semakau was! How fortunate I was to be able to embark on this intertidal walk, it was worth it to see first-hand the animals right in front of my eyes so that I can study these animals better. Not only that, I got to see the environment that these animals live in, as well as the behavior of these animals. It was truly an experience for me as this might be a once in a lifetime opportunity for me.

During the trip, with what I learnt during the Biodiversity Class, I could easily identify the sessile animals such as the haliclona sponges and the boulder corals from their structures. As it was my first time seeing it in its natural habitat, I was amazed at the structure of the sponge as I examined the sponges’ osculum and ostia in its 3D, real-life form. I could see that the osculum is generally larger and bigger and directed to the top of the sponge while there are many ostia around the sponge that are much smaller as learnt in the Biodiversity class. I could also relate a lot of information given by the guides with those covered in lesson.

Given the truly amazing experience I had going to Pulau Semakau, I look forward to embark in these types of trips in the future!