Deep Ocean Animals Adaptations
Food is scarce in much of the deep sea in part because photosynthesis only takes place at the oceans surface where theres sunlight.
Deep ocean animals adaptations. Many shellfish like. The deep-sea is cold dark and mysterious but its creatures are known for their amazing adaptations. Some of the most amazing adaptations are from ocean animals like sharks jellies starfish stingrays and dolphins.
Sharks are very good at finding food. Why are deep sea creatures. Deep sea creatures have evolved some fascinating feeding mechanisms because food is scarce in these zones.
The dense ocean water is filled with tiny floating organisms. 4000 m 6000 m and Hadal from 6000 m and below zones Pelagic division includes Mesopelagic 200. There are several ways deep-ocean animals survive in such an environment.
This is often used by animals everywhere for camouflage and protection from predators. Many deep-sea animals produce their own light by means of luminous organs eg lantern fish. In this lesson students consider the diversity of animals in the deep ocean noting similarities and variations in how animals have adapted to their deep ocean environment.
Animals adapt to their environments to help them survive. They have streamlined bodies to help them swim fast and gills that suck the oxygen out of the water so they can breathe. Encourage students to think about adaptations in marine animals related to obtaining food providing camouflage or safety from predators or dealing with changes in temperature salinity pressure lack of sunlight and need for oxygen.
Watch a recording of this video webinar. More about deep ocean exploration can be found in our Deep Ocean Exploration section. The deep sea is not only under a lot of pressure but it is also very dark.