Manta Ray (Manta birostris)

Beyond the mangrove swamps that line the Yap's shore, Manta Rays congregate to feed, mate, and be cleaned. These majestic creatures have wingspans of up to twenty feet, and can move through the water with tremendous grace and speed. January is the height of the mating season for the Mantas of Yap, and the quiet observer can witness their sensuous, frenzied dance performed by ten to twenty Mantas at a time. The show is spectacular.

Pink Clown Fish

Within the tentacles of its host anemone, this Pink Clown Fish finds protection from predators. A member of the Damsel family known for tenacious defense of their nests, the Clown will face an intruder when confronted, making it an excellent photographic subject. Lima scabra), Little Cayman, Cayman Islands.

Faces of Yap

One of the four Federated States of Micronesia, Yap remains one of the most traditional states in the central Pacific region. While some children attend school in Americanized T-shirts and blue jeans, many still dress in the custom of their ancestors, adorned in hibiscus flowers and banana leaf skirts called lava-lava.

Children of Truk Lagoon

Many of the small islands that make up the state of Truk bear scars from the Second World War. The tiny island called Eten was used by the Japanese as an administrative post. Once the largest airfield in the state and entirely covered in concrete, lush green jungle has returned to surround bombed out food and weapon stores, which now are home to Eten's villagers. Their children play amongst walls scarred by bombs and bullets, unaware of their significance in the shaping of world history.

Live Ammunition on the Fumitzuki Destroyer

The Fumitzuki Destroyer is one of the few battle ships to be found at the bottom of Truk's lagoon. Clearly in view are shells to its enormous bow gun, and the sticks of cordite which make them explosive.

Collecting artifacts from the lagoon is strictly prohibited, insuring that the site will be preserved as an underwater monument to the Second World War.

Common Lionfish (Pterois volitans)

This magnificent fish displays its highly venomous spines to ward off predators. Quite shy and unapproachable, the Lionfish actively hunts for pray at dawn and dusk, or in the shadows of overhangs and caves during the day.