Of all the ecosystems on the planet Earth, none are as diverse as the coral reef. Known for their impressive display of color, these reefs harbor such a vast diversity of life that they are often called the “rainforests of the sea.” Since they are primarily located in shallow, warm water, they are also key tourist attractions for new and experienced snorkelers and scuba divers alike. Next time you’re down there, check to see if you can spot one of these fascinating invertebrates of coral reefs.
Tube Worm
Named after the structures they reside in, tube worms come in all sorts of colors and sizes. They attach themselves to a surface and then secrete a mineral formula that hardens around the body, creating the tubes they inhabit.
Sea Cucumber
Hardly appetizing, the echinoderms actually have leathery skin. Some boast well-defined spines while others eject spine-like filaments when threatened. Just as diverse is their coloring, with many of a plain black or brown, but just as many sporting neon coats of whites, pinks, and oranges.
Giant Clam
The largest of the bivalve mollusk, giant clams are also one of the most endangered of the invertebrates of coral reefs. Impressive creatures, they can live upward of 100 years and grow to weigh over 440 pounds, measuring over 47 inches in length. While they do not eat men as some fables will have you believe, they can, very rarely, produce oft sought after pearls.
Sea Urchin
Eaten as a delicacy in some cultures, the sea urchin is also known as a sea hedgehog in reference to its spines. They are related to sand dollars and move just as slowly, feeding on algae. While many captured are black or deep purple, some can be beautiful deep shades of blues and reds. Their spines also come in a wide variety of sizes, some as wide around as pencils.
Squid
The squid of the reefs are much smaller than their legend-inspiring relatives because they must fit and hide amongst the coral. The Caribbean reef squid can actually fly with its body length fins. Though not as versatile as the cuttlefish, squid change their skin color and pattern to communicate.
