Hey! Let’s explore the depths of the ocean to discover which of these seemingly intimidating creatures are actually friendly.
We’re exploring the tropical waters around Nanuya Balava Island near Fiji, where you might spot some impressive creatures. Those large animals you see, about the size of a Volkswagen Beetle, are Manta Rays. With their long, whip-like tails and broad, diamond-shaped bodies, Manta Rays are quite a sight. There are two main species: the Reef Manta Ray and the Giant Manta Ray. Though they’re related to sharks, Manta Rays have only small teeth on their lower jaw and primarily feed on zooplankton, tiny fish, and crustaceans.
Manta Rays are known for their social behavior and curiosity about humans. They may approach and swim around you, but it’s best to let them come to you rather than chasing them, as they are incredibly fast swimmers. Their name means “cloak” or “blanket,” and among sea creatures, they have the largest brain relative to their body size. Remarkably, Manta Rays can even recognize themselves in mirrors.
Next, we have the Asian sheepshead wrasse, a fish found in the shallow waters of Japan, China, and Korea. Though it might not win any beauty contests with its distinctive protrusions on its jaw and head, it’s one of the friendliest fish you’ll encounter. This fish often seeks refuge in anemones and can grow up to about 40 inches (100 cm) in length.
A particularly notable Asian sheepshead wrasse became famous for its friendship with a Japanese scuba diver. Around 30 years ago, the diver found the injured fish and helped it recover. The diver, who also tended to an underwater Shinto Shrine, would call the fish by ringing an underwater bell.
Let’s dive in with the largest fish in the world—the whale shark. Despite being a shark, whale sharks share some similarities with whales. They can live up to 100 years, though their brains are relatively small. Whale sharks are generally indifferent to humans and are primarily focused on feeding.
Unlike many other shark species, whale sharks are harmless to humans. They are filter feeders, using their large mouths to collect plankton, small fish, and other tiny organisms from the water. Although they have around 3,000 tiny teeth, they don’t use them for feeding. Their throat is quite narrow, about the size of a quarter, making it impossible for them to bite or consume anything larger than their typical food.
Next, we have the sunfish, or mola mola. Its distinctive shape makes it look like it’s been sliced in half, and it lacks a traditional tail. Instead, it has large, wing-like fins that can give the impression of a large creature breaching the surface. The sunfish dives to deeper waters to allow smaller fish to clean its skin and remove parasites. Afterward, it often returns to the surface to bask in the sun.
Sunfish are known for their curious nature. If you encounter one, it might come close to observe you. They are also known for their appetite, and you might find that they are quite willing to approach for a hand-fed snack.
Let’s explore the bottlenose dolphin, known for its seemingly perpetual “smile.” These dolphins are among the most social marine animals, living in groups known as pods. They engage in various activities such as playing, hunting, and caring for their young. Bottlenose dolphins are skilled swimmers and can reach speeds of up to 19 mph (30 kph).
Dolphins surface regularly to breathe through the blowhole on top of their heads. They are also excellent communicators, using a range of sounds to communicate and echolocation to navigate and hunt. While they are often curious and friendly towards humans, this curiosity can sometimes make them vulnerable to predators like sharks.
On the Pacific Coast, you might encounter gray whales. Their skin can be covered in parasites and other organisms, giving their bodies a rough appearance. Gray whales are generally calm and may approach boats, sometimes allowing people to touch them. However, they can be defensive if they feel threatened, especially if they have calves nearby. Although they are usually not aggressive, it’s important to respect their space and adhere to regulations that protect these magnificent creatures.
Let me introduce you to the hammerhead shark, known for its unique head structure. The hammer-shaped head, or cephalofoil, enhances their hunting abilities by allowing them to have a broader field of vision. Their eyes are located on the outer edges of the head, providing a nearly 360-degree view, although they do have a small blind spot directly in front of their snout.
This distinctive head shape also aids in detecting prey buried under the sand. Hammerheads can sweep their heads from side to side to uncover hidden prey, such as rays and small fish. They are found in temperate and tropical waters, both near shore and offshore, and often move in schools. While they are generally not a threat to humans, they can be unpredictable. They usually give warning signs if they feel threatened, and experienced divers know how to respond.
Now, let’s talk about the sea lion. These marine mammals are known for their playful and inquisitive nature. Sea lions are capable of diving up to around 1,000 feet (300 meters) and can hold their breath for extended periods. They breathe air through their nostrils, which close when submerged.
In the wild, sea lions are generally wary of humans and will often keep their distance if they feel threatened. However, those in captivity are more accustomed to human interaction. While wild sea lions may seem aloof or even aggressive if provoked, those in controlled environments can be quite sociable and engaging.
Next up are beluga whales, known for their distinctive white color and bulbous heads. They are among the most social and vocal marine mammals, often referred to as the “canaries of the sea” due to their wide range of sounds. At birth, beluga whales are a dark gray, gradually turning white over a period of about 8 years.
Belugas have the ability to alter the shape of their heads by manipulating air in their sinuses, which helps them produce a variety of sounds. They are known for their curiosity and can form bonds with humans, often displaying playful and friendly behavior. However, due to their wild nature, marine biologists recommend maintaining a respectful distance to ensure both the whales’ safety and yours.
You may have heard of “sea cows”—these are actually manatees. Manatees are large, gentle marine mammals that are typically found in shallow coastal areas and rivers. They graze on seagrass, algae, and other aquatic plants.
Manatees surface approximately every 3 to 5 minutes to breathe, though they can hold their breath for longer if needed. While they are not as agile or intelligent as dolphins, they can recognize colors and are known for their gentle and docile nature. Manatees may approach humans out of curiosity or for warmth, but they are generally calm and non-aggressive.
Next, let’s talk about the basking shark, the second-largest shark species in the world. Basking sharks can open their mouths over 3 feet (1 meter) wide to filter feed on plankton, but despite their size and somewhat intimidating appearance, they are harmless to humans. Divers often swim with these gentle giants. Basking sharks are social creatures and can form groups of up to 100 individuals while swimming near the surface.
Now, let’s move on to the humpback whale, known for its impressive singing. These whales produce complex vocalizations that can last for up to 30 minutes. Scientists believe these songs may be used for communication and mating purposes. Humpback whales are often seen near coastlines where they feed on small marine organisms, using their large flukes to navigate through the water.
While humpback whales are not as approachable as gray whales, they are known for their remarkable behavior. They have been observed protecting other marine animals from predators like orcas, and some studies suggest they exhibit problem-solving abilities and social intelligence. There have even been reports of humpback whales intervening to protect humans from shark attacks.
Let’s start with the Caribbean Reef Octopus. This small cephalopod, which can grow up to about 5 inches (13 cm) in length, is a master of camouflage, blending seamlessly with its surroundings like sand and rocks. Caribbean Reef Octopuses are solitary creatures and prefer to keep to themselves.
When threatened, these octopuses can change color, including turning blue as a warning signal. While they are generally not aggressive, it’s best to observe them from a distance to avoid causing stress.
Next up, let’s discuss the Sea Pig, a unique creature found in the deep ocean. Sea Pigs are small, pink, and resemble a living vacuum cleaner as they walk along the seafloor. They are equipped with several pairs of tube feet and use tentacles around their mouths to sift through the mud in search of food. Despite their endearing appearance, they are protected by toxic skin to defend against predators.
Finally, we have comb jellies, which are bioluminescent and often seen near the shore in warm summer waters. There are various types of comb jellies, including those with two tentacles and those without any. One common example is the Sea Gooseberry, which is small, translucent, and resembles a blob of gelatin. Unlike jellyfish, comb jellies do not have stinging cells and are harmless to humans.
