sealife

Blacktip Shark

Blacktip Sharks (Carcharhinus limbatus) are commonly on Florida’s coasts, in bays, mangrove swamps, and in estuaries. This native shark is often seen in large schools. Blacktip Sharks primarily feed on fish such as mullet, herring, and grouper. They also eat other small sharks, crustaceans, rays, lobsters, and squids.
Blacktip Sharks mate in the summer and, 11 months later, give birth to 2 – 9 pups in estuary nursery grounds. Adults grow to about 8 feet long and can live up to 10 years.
During the winter, Blacktip Sharks migrate southwards to deeper waters along the coasts. They are easily spotted because they often swim near the surface. Blacktip Sharks may leap out of the water and spin three or four times while feeding.
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Portuguese Man o’ War

The Portuguese man o’ war, (Physalia physalis), is a species of siphonophore that is related to jellyfish. The Man-o-war is made up of four polyps that each performs an individual function. The gas-filled polyp that floats above the water and resembles a warship is responsible for floating with the wind and currents. The tentacles capture prey while a third polyp digests the food. The fourth polyp is responsible for reproduction.

Men o’ war can be seen floating in the ocean in groups of more than 1000. Below the beautiful floats are long tentacles that measure an average of 30 feet but can grow to well over 100 feet. The tentacles paralyze and kill crustaceans and small fish who are in their path. To avoid predators, the Men o’ wars will deflate their float.

Rising ocean temperatures and reduced oxygen in the water caused by climate change have created an environment where the Men-o-war thrive. The sting from a Portuguese man o’ war causes welts and is extremely painful. When you see these beautiful creatures on the shore, admire them from afar.
Be sure to Click on the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMYWt0nKADU
Video Credit: Claudia Pardo Merino

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