DIVE LOG AUSTRALASIA ISSUE 413 AUGUST 25

Moments that matter - a rare close-up of the cuttlefish’s brief mating bond

Other predators also take advantage of the seasonal abundance. Leatherjackets, Snappers and various Stingrays, including the Smooth Ray and Southern Eagle Ray, are common in the area and have also been observed feeding on cuttlefish. This dynamic food web makes the aggregation not only a visual spectacle but a vital ecological event in the Spencer Gulf. When visiting the cuttlefish aggregation, it’s essential to remember that you are observing a species in the midst of an intense and sensitive reproductive phase. Even seemingly harmless actions like reaching out to touch them can have serious consequences—causing stress, interrupting courtship, or harming egg-laying sites hidden beneath rocks. The best encounters happen when divers move deliberately and respectfully. A calm, patient approach offers the chance to witness the full spectrum of natural behaviours—from colour-flickering standoffs to the delicate placement of eggs in reef crevices. I strongly recommend setting aside at least two to three days if you’re planning to dive or snorkel at Stony Point. The more time you spend in the water, the greater your chances of encountering a full spectrum of natural displays. Conditions can vary day to day with visibility, lighting, and tide, and different individuals will display different interactions at different times. With patience and respect, you might witness rarely seen

moments: a mimic male slipping past a distracted rival, a female ejecting a rejected sperm packet, or a male’s hue patterns flickering in a courtship ‘dance-off’. No single dive can capture it all—but give yourself time, and the reef will reveal its secrets. For those wanting a more secluded experience, Black Point (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kQH5Fji3zmonsv8g8) provides a worthwhile alternative. Though the access is rockier and less developed than Stony Point, the surrounding reef is equally rich in marine life—and in some parts, even more visually striking. The reduced foot traffic also increases your chances of witnessing undisturbed cuttlefish interactions, making it a great choice for photographers and those seeking longer, quieter dives. And of course for those who prefer to stay dry, glass bottom boat tours offer an excellent alternative. These cruises operate several times a day throughout the season, allowing visitors to watch the action unfold beneath the surface from the comfort of the boat. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, the tours provide fascinating insights into the biology and activity of the cuttlefish, as well as the broader marine ecosystem they support. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freediving.visions/ Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@freediving.visions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vadim.belakhov/ Email: vbelakhov@gmail.com

41

Dive Log Australasia #413 August‘25

www.divelog.net.au