Tropical Oceans

Temperate Oceans Animals
The tropical oceans of the world are home to fish, mammals, and birds as well as a myriad of invertebrates.

Many beautiful and fragile animals have adapted to the warm waters of coral reefs. Because the reefs offer natural protection to many of the fish, many interesting adaptations have taken place. The result is some of the most bizarre and beautiful creatures found in the sea.

Adaptations
StonefishWhy do you think the Stonefish (pictured at right) evolved to look the way it does?  Adaptations appear over time because certain shapes and colors create camouflage which protect an organism from its predators.  Looking like a stone can help the Stonefish avoid being another animal's lunch!

Animal data and illustrations (except for invertebrates) come from the Multimedia Animals Encyclopedia.

Next
Disclaimer
Copyright © 2002 Missouri Botanical Garden
MBGnet Home