South Africa is bespeckled with terrific tidal pools, which provide a treasure trove of fun for the entire family. From swimming laps to splashing about, these shallow waters are a great way to connect with the ocean (without the fear of getting swept away by a wave).
Unsplash/Timo Wielink
However, these rocky pools are not without the magnificent sea life known to inhabit the ocean. Unsure what is lurking below the shallow waters at a tidal pool? Take a look at a few creatures you’re likely to happen upon.
Anemones
Often with a flair of colour embedded on the seafloor, anemones are seemingly tentacled structures swaying in the water. Interestingly, anemones are related to jellyfish, but the ones located in tidal pools do not contain harmful stingers and are not dangerous to humans.
Their feelers are sticky, and they use these extended arms to capture food to feast on. These creatures are also the perfect objects to photograph if you like underwater photography, as their colours can, at times, vividly present themselves among the sand-coloured landscape of the ocean floor.
Whelks
If you’re a big fan of seashell collecting and beachcombing, you must ensure creatures do not inhabit these shells. This is particularly important when it comes to whelks, as they are shelled creatures that move along the sea bed looking for food.
They are carnivorous marine snails with coiled shells that come in a variety of colours. Be sure to watch these shells wade their way through the sand, as they resemble a shell haunted by a ghost looking for vengeance.
Cushion Stars
Usually scattered on an ocean rock below, cushion stars are almost perfectly camouflaged to blend into the environment to avoid detection. These chunky starfish are herbivores and feast on algae.
It might be tempting to disturb these cushion stars and take them out of the water to inspect them, but remember that marine species should be respected and rather looked at than touched.
Octopus
While not a common sight in tidal pools, octopi can sometimes make their way there in high tide to explore and look for prey. These invertebrates are very smart and curious, but they will often retreat under rocks to avoid detection if they feel threatened.
Much like other sea creatures, if you happen upon these tentacled cuties, look rather than touch them, as they have many unpleasant ways to ward off unwanted visitors.
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