Star of Lembeh – Part II

Welcome to our “Stars of Lembeh”. These amazing critters are found at numerous sites in the Lembeh Strait and we see special star qualities in all of them; whether it’s in the way they move, behave, hunt, mate or display their stunning colors they are all North Sulawesi Super Stars and make the dive sites here at Lembeh among the best dive sites in Indonesia!

Frequently found in pairs this duo needs no introduction. A firm favorite with photographers just as all stars should be!

Ornate Ghost Pipefish (Solenostomus paradoxus) – Photo by Valdy “Opo S.” Makasighe

With popping colors and intricate markings this juvenile Frogfish is truly a star of Lembeh and a rare and sought after find.

Juvenile Painted frogfish Variation (Antennarius pictus) – Photo by Iwan Muhani

It’s not just a star because it looks so weird (although it does). It also has an incredible FIVE antennae for sensing prey making it a star predator!

Bobbit Worm (Eunice aphroditois) – Photo by Abner Mangole

You don’t have to be BIG to be a mega star. The Pontohi pygmy is one of our smallest “stars” and definitely one of our favorites.

Pygmy Seahorse Pontohi (Hippocampus pontohi) – Photo by Vadly “Opo S.” Makasighe

There is no need to explain why this fabulous and prehistoric looking nocturnal critter is a star – it’s all in the name!

Reticulate Stargazer ( Uranoscopus bicinctus) – Photo by Fandy Sangi

The star quality of the Pygmy cuttlefish is in the way it moves. It “walks”, rather than swims, using its arms and the flaps of the mantle.

Pygmy Cuttlefish (Sepia bandensis) – Photo by Fekia “Opo K.” Luas

This magnificent species of scorpionfish also known as Rhinopias can display different color variations and appendages according to its habitat and environment – making it a star of camouflage!

Weedy Scorpionfish ( Rhinopias frondosa ) – Photo by Vadly “Opo S.” Makasighe

There is no need to explain why these amazing yet small fish are stars. With colors like these they are ready for the red carpet!

Mandarinfish (Synchiropus splendidus) – Photo by Iwan Muhani