Marine Animals

 

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Explore by Habitat

Every habitat on the planet is home to a unique complex of species. Learn more about the animals that live in:

Protecting Oceans and Coral Reefs

Learn more about the Conservancy's work to protect Planet Earth's marine habitats.

Oceans and seas cover the majority of the planet's surface. From the coral reefs and their abundance of life to the solitary creatures that lurk in the depths the oceans are home to some of the planet's most unusual creatures.

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Great White Shark

Perhaps the most formidible predator of the open ocean. The great white is notorious and is the subject of many myths and legends.

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Whale Shark

Much more placid than its infamous cousin, the whale shark is the largest species of fish on the planet.

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Hawksbill Sea Turtle

The shell trade once decimated populations of this turtle. However, populations are gradually recovering.

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Bottlenose Dolphin

Perhaps the most familiar member of the cetacean family, the bottlenose dolphin is one of the most intelligent sea animals.

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French Angelfish

This distinctive fish has a wide range throughout the coral reefs of the Americas.

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Sea Otter

These charismatic creatures are adept fishermen, using stones as tools to break apart shells.

Nature picture credits (top to bottom): Photo © Bart Coenders (Great White Shark); Photo © Jerry A. Payne, USDA Agricultural Research Service, United States  (Whale Shark); Photo © Peter Heiss (Hawksbill Sea turtle); Photo © Konrad Wothe / Minden Pictures (Bottlenose Dolphin); Photo © Norbert Wu / Minden Pictures (French Angelfish); Photo © Ken K. Ringer (Sea Otter).