Photo Gallery

With its iridescent turquoise markings and four pairs of eyes, this jumping spider (Thania bhamoensis) is well-equipped to recognize and assess members of its own species. The spider’s large central eyes are responsible for acute vision and allow it to differentiate between potential mates and rivals. (Among other differences, females tend to be greener, while males are bluer.) Meanwhile, the spider’s three smaller pairs of eyes can detect movement on all sides, which comes in handy both when fighting off rivals and being on the lookout for potential prey.

The Rainforest Next Door

Just minutes from a major metropolis, Malaysia’s Penang Hill rainforest boasts some of the richest backyard biodiversity on the planet.

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The Big Picture

A showcase of amazing creatures and gorgeous environments—some threatened, some thriving—from around the globe

Like many other deep-sea fishes, the Sloan’s viperfish (Chauliodus sloani) uses light-producing cells called photophores to lure unsuspecting prey toward its mouth. Once it catches its victim, the viperfish’s hinged teeth rotate inward to trap the animal and force it inescapably down the predator’s gullet.
Aliens of the Deep

From transparent bodies and glowing appendages to motion-sensing cells, these denizens of the deep are highly adapted for life in a world without light.

In Search of Lost Frogs

Recently rediscovered—or discovered for the first time—these survivors offer hope for future conservation efforts.