The oceans are vast, deep, and mysterious, and they are home to an incredible array of strange and exotic creatures. From the giant, deep-sea dwelling squids to the tiny, glowing lanternfish, the sea is full of wonders that most people have never even heard of.
HERE ARE THE 10 STRANGE SEA CREATURES YOU HAVE NEVER SEEN BEFORE
The Umbonia Spinosa, or Thorny Umbonia
This bizarre-looking insect is native to the shallow waters of the Caribbean Sea, and it is easily recognized by its spiky, armored exoskeleton. The Umbonia Spinosa feeds on small plankton and other microscopic organisms, and it is an important part of the marine food chain.
The Mola Mola, or Ocean Sunfish
This massive fish is the heaviest known bony fish in the world, and it can weigh up to 5,000 pounds. Despite its impressive size, the Mola Mola is a slow-moving, gentle giant, and it is often seen basking in the sun near the surface of the water.
The Vaquita, or Gulf of California Porpoise
This small, elusive porpoise is found only in the Gulf of California, and it is considered to be the most endangered marine mammal on the planet. The Vaquita is threatened by accidental capture in fishing nets, and fewer than 30 individuals are thought to remain in the wild.
The Bobbit Worm
This terrifying predatory worm is found in the shallow waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and it can grow up to 10 feet in length. The Bobbit Worm buries itself in the sand, waiting for unsuspecting prey to swim by. When an animal passes within range, the Bobbit Worm lashes out with its sharp, scissor-like mandibles, slicing its prey in half.
The Giant Tube Worm
These bizarre, tube-shaped creatures are found in the deep sea, around hydrothermal vents. The Giant Tube Worm lacks a mouth, digestive system, and gut, and it relies on a symbiotic relationship with bacteria to survive. The bacteria convert the hydrogen sulfide and other chemicals spewing from the vents into energy, which the Giant Tube Worm uses to grow and reproduce.
The Dumbo Octopus
This adorable octopus gets its name from the large, ear-like fins on the sides of its head, which resemble the ears of Disney's beloved elephant. The Dumbo Octopus is found in the deep sea, and it is known for its slow, graceful movements.
The Northern Stargazer
This strange fish is found in the shallow waters of the North Atlantic, and it is easily recognized by its large, upward-facing eyes and toothy grin. The Northern Stargazer buries itself in the sand, waiting for prey to swim overhead, and it has the ability to generate an electric shock to stun its victims.
The Frilled Shark
This ancient, eel-like shark is found in the deep waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and it is rarely seen by humans. The Frilled Shark is named for the frilled gills that run the length of its body, and it is thought to be a living fossil, unchanged for more than 80 million years.
The Hooded Nudibranch
This colorful sea slug is found in the warm waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, and it is known for its striking, hood-like mantle. The Hooded Nudibranch feeds on coral polyps, and it is thought to be a key player in the health of coral reefs.
The Hammerhead Worm
Bizarre, hammer-headed worm is found in the soils of forests and grasslands around the world. The Hammerhead Worm is a voracious predator, feeding on a variety of insects and other small animals. Despite its strange appearance, the Hammerhead Worm is an important part of the ecosystem, helping to keep populations of pests in check.
These are just a few examples of the strange and wonderful creatures that inhabit the oceans. From the shallow coral reefs to the deepest trenches, the sea is full of mysteries and marvels that are just waiting to be discovered. Next time you go for a swim, keep an eye out for these strange and exotic sea creatures, and you might just see something that you have never seen before.