HMS SUB-TROPICAL
LIFE IN THE WARM CORAL SEAS
Coral reefs are often called the tropical rainforests of the sea for their astounding richness of life.
Due to their structural complexity, corals are one of the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They don’t just look amazing, though – they also provide important services to mankind. They safeguard our fishing areas, they protect our coastlines, they provide us with all sorts of incredible medicines, and they boost tourism in many areas, too. (Ever heard of the Great Barrier Reef?)
In our HMS Sub-Tropical zone, you’ll be able to jump in our submarine and get up close and personal with all kinds of iconic fish. From clownfish (Nemos!) to colourful corals and anemones, we challenge you to see how many of these amazing little creatures you can spot during your journey!
A SAMPLE OF SPECIES
Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) typically live in small groups on outer reef slopes or in sheltered lagoons at a maximal depth of 15 meters. It inhabits three different species of sea anemones: Heteractis magnifica, Stichodactyla gigantea and Stichodactyla mertensii and have symbiotic relationships with the anemone.
Corals are found in all of Earth’s oceans, from tropical to freezing temperatures, however they only build coral reefs in warm, shallow seas in the tropics. Among the biggest and best-known are the reef systems of the Great Barrier Reef of Australia, which is around 2,300 kilometres long. The most biologically diverse reefs in the world can be found in a region known as the Coral Triangle in Southeast Asia.
Find out more and experience the wonders of HMS Sub-tropical by booking your tickets today!