WiseOceans Academy
Do you have a mini marine biologist at home that is curious about the underwater world and animals inside of it? Our WiseOceans Academy marine biology classes are designed to engage and educate learners all about the ocean and its inhabitants. Here are just ten of the incredible creatures you will meet if you join our virtual sessions.
Spinner dolphin
This species has an incredibly distinct way of breaching unlike any other, they corkscrew through the air, spinning serval times in a single leap.
Thresher shark
These sharks are recognisable for their exceptionally long tail. They use this elongated tail to hunt for fish, as they whip it through the water the shockwave can kill or stun their prey.
Mud skipper
Mudskippers have some unique adaptations for a fish; they can survive on land! Mudskippers can hold water next to their gills, as well as breathe through their skin, meaning they can spend time out of the water unlike most fish.
Parrotfish
These rainbow fish are found in tropical waters around the world, but they have an important job. Parrotfish scrape algae off corals, ingesting lots of the hard rocky skeleton. The coral skeleton is broken down in their stomach, and they poop out sand!
Leatherback turtles
These are the largest species of sea turtle, with their shell growing over 2m long. They also hold the record for the deepest diving type of marine reptile, reaching depths of 1250m.
Manatees
Manatees have a funny nickname given to them, sea cows! This is due to their size, slow movements, and the fact they spend their days munching away at the sea grass.
Peacock mantis shrimp
This species has a slightly misleading name, as they are not a type of shrimp. Peacock mantis shrimp hold the record for the fastest punch of any animal, using their clubs to break open their preys’ shells or protect themselves.
Whale shark
This species of shark is the largest fish to live in our oceans, with the largest recorded being almost 19m long. Despite their size they are gentle giants, moving slowly through the water feeding on tiny plankton.
Mimic octopus
This species of octopus are truly incredible shape shifters. Changing the colour, texture and shape of their bodies they can imitate multiple other creatures, such as poisonous flats fish, lionfish and venomous sea snakes.
Nautilus
This species of cephalopod is known as a living fossil, as they have lived in our oceans, almost unchanged for over 400 million years. They are also the only species of cephalopod to have an external shell.
Ready to start your ocean exploring journey? To sign up and join the self-paced course click here. While you wait for your first class, why not follow us on Facebook, where we regularly share fun facts, craft ideas and cute videos. You might also like to sign up to our monthly WiseKids newsletter for a monthly dose of marvellous marine-themed content straight to your inbox!
