EPOW - Ecology Picture of the Week

Each week a different image of our fascinating environment is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional ecologist.

9-15 April 2018

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Snakebird of the Congo

African Darter (Anhinga rufa), Family Anhingidae
Monkoto, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Credit & Copyright: Dr. Bruce G. Marcot

Explanation:  During an expedition into the heart of the Congo River Basin, we encountered this sleek form traversing the waters and shoals of the Luilaka River that splits the north and south sections of the Salonga National Park wilderness.  

This is an African Darter, also called Snakebird for its serpentine-thin neck that protrudes about the water level while swimming while the rest of the body is submerged.  Related to the North American Anhinga and the darters of Asia and Australia, the African Darter is found broadly throughout sub-Saharan Africa along watercourses where it dives for fish.

    

Next week's picture:  Chinese Lantern on Southern Beech

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