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Diving the world’s oceans

You may know that our oceans cover more than 70 percent of the earth’s surface, but did you know that humans have only explored a total of less than five percent of the oceans? In celebration of World Ocean Day, we want to explore the best dive sites within the seven seas. From the small tropical islands of the Pacific to the crystal-clear waters of the Indian, over to the wild and rough Atlantic, every ocean has its diverse underwater characteristics and brings something unique to the table. This week, let us help you discover magical dive sites you have never heard of before!

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Discover the World’s Most Fascinating Aquatic Life

Aquatic life under our oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams is amazing! From microscopic zooplankton to the largest animal on earth, the blue whale, underwater life comes in all possible shapes and sizes. With 71% of the earth being covered with water, it is no wonder we are so fascinated with what lies beneath the surface. In fact, scientists estimate that there are nearly 1 million different species of aquatic animals. Freshwater ecosystems are home mainly to fish, invertebrates, and reptiles, whereas the ocean contains a wide array of marine life including fish, mollusks, crustaceans, reptiles, sharks, and marine mammals like whales, dolphins, seals, and manatees.

Great White Shark

With females able to grow up to 7 meters long, the great white shark is the largest predatory fish on earth. It owes its name to its light, almost white, belly color, making it almost invisible to prey looking up from the seafloor. It’s body is similar in construction to a torpedo, making them very good, fast swimmers. In fact, they can reach speeds of up to 25 km/h and, like whales, have the ability to launch their entire body out of the water. Not many species prey on great whites, but if it is attacked, it can rolls its eyes inward for protection. Their eyes can absorb weak light, allowing them to see better in twilight than a cat.

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Giant Oceanic Manta Ray

With fins as wide as wings, manta rays soar along ocean currents like birds in flight, making them one of the most elegant animals of the sea. The name ‘manta’ comes from the Spanish word blanket and with a wingspan of up to nine meters, it’s easy to see how they can look like a blanket floating in the sea. Scuba diving with mantas is one of the most amazing experiences any diver can have underwater.

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Pygmy Seahorse

Pygmy seahorses are not only the smallest and cutest of the seahorses, but they are the best at blending in with their environment. You really have to hunt for these masters of disguise as pygmies are some of the smallest seahorse species in the world, with adults averaging only 2 centimeters in length! Every pygmy not only imitates the exact color of the sea fan it is living on, but its body is also covered in calcium-rich bumps called tubercles that mimic the fan’s polyps, completely camouflaging the pygmy. These tiny seahorses are truly an amazing sight to see.

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Ocean Sunfish

The ocean sunfish, commonly known as the Mola mola, are one of the most extraordinary fish found in the ocean. Due to their round, flattened form they are reminiscent of a millstone, called mola in Latin. Ocean sunfish are found in both temperate and tropical regions around the world. They are frequently seen near the surface, an amazing site to witness as they bask in the sun to raise their body temperature after deep ocean dives, sometimes as deep as 600 meters!

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Check Out the Incredible Moments Water Enthusiasts Like You Experience Every Day with SSI

Did you just complete an SSI certification? Proudly post it! Want to support your favorite SSI Training Center and promote it to the world? Post it! Did you just have an unforgettable dive experience with your SSI Professional? Post it!

We love to see the SSI family growing day by day: so upload your photo to Instagram with #wearessi or #divessi or mention @ssi_international, and it will automatically appear in the SSI Hall of Fame. We can’t wait to see your adventures today!

Discover the Wonders of the Deep with SSI's Blog

Join us on an exciting journey of discovery and learn more about exhilarating diving adventures, dedicated conservation initiatives, and innovative educational opportunities that will help you illuminate the extraordinary beauty of the underwater world. Let's explore the underwater world together and delve into the hidden wonders beneath the gentle waves.