Page 90 - Port Douglas Magazine 46

YOUR TROPICAL

Fun facts about group
names of sea life on the ADVENTURE STARTS HERE

Great Barrier Reef (GBR)
Exclusive deals on Port Douglas experiences

did you know?

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

Dolphins are highly social creatures that often Always swim in the beach stinger net and wear suitable protection,
travel and hunt in groups called pods. a stinger suit, especially during the months of November to May.
And don’t forget to take a photograph just for the jks!
The GBR is home to several species of dolphins,
including the common bottlenose dolphin, spinner
dolphins and the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin. SCHOOL OF CLOWNFISH
These intelligent marine mammals are frequently Clownfish are known for their striking
spotted playing and leaping in the waters around colours and unique behaviour.
the reef.
They form small groups, called schools,
usually led by a dominant female. Half day Full day
Just like Nemo, the relationship Great Barrier Reef
SQUAD OF SQUID between clownfish and sea anemones Island Adventure
Squid are agile and intelligent cephalopods FEVER OF RAYS is an iconic sight on the reef. SNORKELLING | GLASS BOTTOM BOAT SNORKELLING | DIVING | 3 REEF SITES
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 fins and are often SCHOOL OR SHIVER OF
spotted gliding over the sandy seabed.
SHARKS
CAST OF CRABS range of shark species, including
The GBR is home to a diverse
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 Full day Half day
nutrient cycling and serving as both predator and prey. during migration or feeding.
Contrary to popular belief, many Daintree Rainforest Ziplining Tour
shark species are not solitary and
POD OR GAM OF WHALES exhibit social behaviours. MOSSMAN GORGE | SMALL INTIMATE GROUPS CAPE TRIBULATION | RAINFOREST ZIPLINING

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. Port Douglas Magazine readers save 15%
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 Use code ‘PDMAG15’ to book
unique and vibrant ecosystem.
BALE OF SEA TURTLES
The GBR is a crucial nesting area for several species of sea Make sure you experience this reefunlimited.com | 1300 031 411
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 T&Cs apply. Offer valid only via direct bookings with Calypso Reef Cruises,
90 Download the Port Douglas App Daintree Tours or Treetops Adventure.
A group of sea turtles is known as a “bale.” footprint behind! PORT DOUGLAS MAGAZINE 91