New Eyes on the Ocean
Anglerfish use the lure above their head to attract prey. In the deep sea, where there is perpetual darkness, these lures are bioluminescent. These fish are just one of the many amazing types of deep sea creatures.
Why It Matters
- Only about 5% of the oceans have been explored.
- Nearly every trip into the deep finds something new.
- Descending in a submersible, like Alvin, reveals all sorts of unusual creatures and geological features.
- Vampire squid gets its name because it turns inside out to avoid predators. Vampire squid do not change colors like other squid, but have bioluminescence.
With the link below, learn more about the oceans. Then answer the following questions.
- Ted Talks, David Gallo, Live in the Deep Ocean: http://www.ted.com/talks/david_gallo_on_life_in_the_deep_oceans.html
- Why are some organisms in the ocean better studied with a camera than brought up in a net?
- What can scientists learn by collecting samples that they can’t learn from just observing?
- Many squid change color to camouflage themselves to avoid predators. Why don’t vampire squid change colors?
- What is happening to the Titanic?
- Why is it important for us to better understand the ocean?