Jurgen Freund’s pictures of a baby turtle, a barrel sponge and other beauties of the deep have been released to back environmental campaigners the WWF.

His photographs are shown as part of the charity’s Blue Mile project to raise money for its global conservation work.

Freund took the photos during an 18-month expedition to the Coral Triangle – the coastline of the Philippines, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

This the where the world’s marine life is concentrated and its 6million sq km is home to many species of whales, dolphins, tuna, reef fish, rays, sharks and turtles.

The WWF hopes the pictures show what the world could lose if climate change and pollution are allowed to take hold of fragile eco-systems.

As part of Blue Mile, the WWF is urging people to take part in a sponsored event – covering a mile in or by water.

Fundraisers can swim, paddle, kayak, or stroll beside a river, lake or beach.

They can organise an event or join the WWF’s London event on Sunday, September 4, at Stoke Newington West Reservoir. For details, visit wwf.org.uk/bluemile or call 02392 312008.