Landlocked Mermaid

December is a time to look back and reflect on the year. So, I am taking the opportunity to look back on all the critters featured on #MCotM this year! February: Giant Clam They live in the Indo-Pacific Ocean, found in tropical waters and reefs like the Great Barrier Reef. They like warm waters, no deeper than 20m (66ft), so it is nice and light for them. This is because they have a symbiotic relationship with algae, who rely on photosynthesis for food. Giant clams are the biggest species of clam, growing up to 120cm (47") and weighing up to 200kg (440lbs). It is believed they can live up to 100 years. They are, unfortunately, being hunted to extinction by humans - for profit and food. It is the only species of clam which cannot completely close its shell. March: Nautilus The nautilus is a type of cephalopod, which is the same family as squid and octopus. They have been around since there were dinosaurs on the planet, making them something of a ...

Marine Creature of the Month Southern Right Whale Dolphin Photo from The Scuttlefish Kingdom: Animalia Class: Mammalia Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC) WHERE DO THEY LIVE? If the name wasn't a give away, these dolphins live in the Southern Hemisphere. They are found in temperate waters across the globe, from coastal Chile to waters near New Zealand. They have seen sighted often around the Faulkland Islands and even in the Indian Ocean. Their range is often associated with the cooler currents in this region.  WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE? The Southern Right Whale Dolphin does not look like a traditional dolphin for it lacks a dorsal fin and a pronounced beak. They have slim, graceful bodies with dark tops and light underbellies. This is a common colouration for aquatic creatures because it provides good camouflage against predation from above and below. The Southern Right Whale Dolphin has a two distinct colours rather than a faded blend which is mo...