Marine Sponges
What is a sponge? There are more than 9,000 sponge species in the world’s oceans. Because they don’t move, you might think that sponges are plants, but they are actually considered animals—think of a sponge as a bunch of… Read More
Category: Coasts & Marine
Oyster Reefs
When you think of oysters, you probably imagine pearls or the tasty creature that lives inside that rough and wrinkled shell. But did you know that oysters (and those shells) play a critical role in coastal ecosystems? Oysters… Read More
Carp Edema Virus Disease (CEVD) / Koi Sleepy Disease (KSD)
Carp edema virus disease is killing wild and cultured varieties of carp and worrying koi enthusiasts and carp aquaculturists in the United States and around the world. The disease causes skin lesions and swelling and is sometimes called… Read More
November Wildlife Happenings
From more woodpecker sightings on suet feeders to manatees migrating to warmer waters, November is the month Florida wildlife prepares for the winter season. More…
Recognizing Florida’s Venomous Snakes
Florida provides many opportunities to enjoy nature. Those who like hiking, camping or swimming may have been acquainted with the many species of snakes native to the state—46 to be exact. While this number may scare some people, only… Read More
October Wildlife Happenings
October is when the fall season really sets in. Besides cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, this month will bring about new animals and wildlife activity. Find out how Florida’s wildlife spend their fall in October wildlife happenings. More…
Florida’s State Animals
Florida has more than sunshine and amusement parks. It also has a range of natural resources and animals. Florida legislators have identified the following animals as state symbols to honor our natural environment.
Florida’s Spiny Lobster Season
From August 6 until March 31, hundreds of thousands of boaters, divers and snorkelers search along Florida’s coastal waterways and throughout the Florida Keys for spiny lobsters. Florida provides 100 percent of the nation’s commercial spiny lobster landings, making… Read More
Shark Attacks: Reducing the Risks
Have you ever wondered how you would react if a shark swam by or even attacked you while you took a swim at the beach? Although you have a greater chance of getting struck by lightning or injured in… Read More