The most varied life on Earth is found right in the oceans. There are thousands of creatures that make their homes in a marine environment, and many of them are invertebrates, which are simply creatures that don’t have a central spine. Although they may seem like a simple life form, these creatures can be beautiful, interesting, and complex. Here are just 5 of the thousands of marine invertebrates living in our oceans.
Cuttlefish
One of the most endearing marine invertebrates is the cuttlefish. There are several types of cuttlefish, and almost all of them are found in tropical waters. Cuttlefish have rounded bodies and small heads, from which protrude several squid-like arms. Cuttlefish change color rapidly to camouflage or display themselves. These little animals are also believed to be some of the smartest marine creatures.
Sea Snail
Snails are also a type of invertebrate, and one of the most amazing snail species is the Australian trumpet snail. These snails have lovely white, spindle-shaped shells. What’s really fascinating about this species, however, is that they are the largest snail species on the planet. Australian trumpet snails can grow to 35 inches long. These snails, as their name suggests, are common around Australia, as well as around Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.
California Sea Hare
One of the most beautiful and unique marine creatures is the California sea hare, which is a type of sea slug. These slugs have thick, frilled bodies. They are bright pink, yellow, purple, orange, white and black in color, and display amazing patterns. California sea hares usually get their bright coloring from the pigments in the red algae they eat. They can grow to 30 inches long and live for about a year.
Starfish
Many of the world’s invertebrates are starfish. One interesting species is the eleven-armed sea star. These starfish can grow to about a foot wide, including the arms, which usually number 11 but can number up to 14. Eleven-arm starfish live in shallow waters off of New Zealand and Australia. They are usually blue, but also display shades of green, purple, pink, red, or white.
Hermit Crab
Hermit crabs are often thought of as terrestrial invertebrates, but many species live in the ocean. One type is the Halloween hermit crab, which has bright black and orange striped legs. These omnivorous crabs live in the Indo-Pacific region and can grow to about two inches long. Like all hermit crabs, these crabs don’t grow a shell, but swap from shell to empty shell as they mature.
