About the Project

The ZooTrophy Animal-a-Day project began on October 15th, 2013 as illustrator Angela "LemurKat" Oliver began working her way, systematically but selectively, through the alphabet and presenting, via social media, an illustrated animal to the world. Daily.

All pieces are drawn as 2.5 x 3.5 inch collectible cards, using a combination of polychromos and prismacolor pencils, along with other art materials. Many are still available for purchase ($10) or trade, so drop her an email if anything captures your eye or if there is an animal you wish to request.

It is predicted this project will take her at least two years to complete - with approximately 36 animals being drawn for each letter. She has also used the images to create a collectible hardback encyclopedia series, playing cards and a desk calendar, as well as the ZooTrophy collectible trading card game.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

#677: Portugese Man o' War

Despite thier appearance, the Portugese Man O' War is not a Jellyfish, instead they are a siphonophore, a colony of specialised cells that are combined together to create a single, deadly entity. The upper, gas-filled sac acts as a sail, allowing the winds to direct the Man O' War across the water and keep them afloat. This gas bladder contains a mixture of carbon monoxide, nitrogen, oxygen and argon. If threatened, this sail can be deflated allowing the organism to submerge. The tentacles can reach up to 50 m in length, and each bears stinging, venom-filled nemocysts. These entangle, sting and kill small fish and other sea creatures, which are then dragged up into the main body to be consumed.

Being stung by a Man O' War is a painful experience, with serious side effects such as fever, shock and interference with heart and lungs.

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