Did you know we have one of the world’s most biodiverse marine habitats on our doorstep?
You would be surprised by some of the beautiful and bizarre aquatic creatures living in Port Phillip Bay and other parts of the Victorian coastline.
Part of my job is presenting these coastal critters to kids through WildlifeXposure’s Marine Life program.
I’m passionate about educating children about our diverse local marine life. I’m an avid scuba diver and have licences which allow me to collect and display some of these unique coastal critters.
Our live aquarium display and presentation provides a unique opportunity to learn more about our coastal habitats and the animals that inhabit them.
It’s an unforgettable experience as children are able to view and touch the live marine animals in a safe and ethical environment.
Here are some unusual facts about the weird and wonderful creatures they learn about:
– Crustaceans such as crabs shed their exoskeletons as they grow
– Sharks and stingrays do not have bones. They are made up of cartilage and their teeth are the hardest part of their bodies
– Sea stars can regrow their arms and when chopped in half they can turn into two sea stars
– An octopus has nine brains and three hearts
– Male seahorse give birth to their young
– Many sea snails are carnivorous and use a drill called a proboscis to capture their prey
How many of these facts did you know?
They are just a small taste of the many strange things that children (and adults) can learn about not only marine creatures, but other wildlife. Watch this space!
*Xavier Morello operates Wildlife Xposure with wife Madeleine. The Surf Coast family business offers programs ideal for schools, kindergartens and childcare facilities across Victoria. They also offer wildlife birthday parties and large displays and stage presentations for festivals, shopping centres and corporate events.
For more information, visit www.wildlifexposure.com.au
