Page 115 - Port Douglas Magazine 40

Fun facts about group
names of sea life on the

Great Barrier Reef (GBR)

did you know?

SMACK OF JELLYFISH
The term “smack” refers to a large group of jellyfi sh, and it’s fi tting
given the potential sting they can deliver.
Some of the jellyfi sh species in the area include the box jellyfi sh
POD OF DOLPHINS and the Irukandji jellyfi sh.

Dolphins are highly social creatures that Always swim in the beach stinger net and wear suitable protection,
often travel and hunt in groups called pods. a stinger suit, especially during the months of November to May.
The GBR is home to several species
of dolphins, including the common SCHOOL OF CLOWNFISH
bottlenose dolphin, spinner dolphins and
the Indo-Pacifi c humpback dolphin. Clownfi sh are known for their striking
colours and unique behaviour.
These intelligent marine mammals are
frequently spotted playing and leaping in They form small groups, called schools,
usually led by a dominant female.
Just like Nemo, the relationship
between clownfi sh and sea anemones
SQUAD OF SQUID is an iconic sight on the reef.
Squid are agile and intelligent cephalopods FEVER OF RAYS
that inhabit the waters of the GBR. Rays, including manta rays and stingrays,
They are known to travel in groups, called are common in the waters around the GBR.
squads, which helps protect them from The term “fever” is used to describe a
predators. group of rays.
Squid are essential prey for many larger marine These graceful creatures are known for
animals in the reef ecosystem. their distinctive wing-like fi ns and are often SCHOOL OR SHIVER OF
spotted gliding over the sandy seabed.
SHARKS
The GBR is home to a diverse
CAST OF CRABS range of shark species, including
Crabs are abundant on beaches, in rock pools and coral reefs. reef, tiger and hammerhead sharks.
As a group they are known as a “cast”.
Sharks are known to form groups
Crabs play a vital role in the ecosystem, contributing to called schools or shivers, especially
nutrient cycling and serving as both predator and prey. during migration or feeding.
Contrary to popular belief, many
shark species are not solitary and
POD OR GAM OF WHALES exhibit social behaviours.

The GBR is a migratory path for several species of whales,
including humpback whales. They are a sight to behold!
Humpback whales, in particular, travel in groups known as
pods or gams.
These majestic marine mammals are often seen breaching So now you can impress your
and tail-slapping as part of their social behaviours. friends and family with some of
these interesting fun facts!
The Great Barrier Reef as a truly
BALE OF SEA TURTLES unique and vibrant ecosystem.
The GBR is a crucial nesting area for several species of sea Make sure you experience this
wonderful sanctuary.
turtles, including the green sea turtle and the loggerhead turtle.
Sea turtles often gather in groups, especially during nesting And remember to always…
season, when females come ashore to lay their eggs. Tread Lightly and leave only your
A group of sea turtles is known as a “bale.” footprint behind!