Beneath the waves, where the ocean floor lies,
Live creatures of all shapes and size.
Some have shells or scales or fur,
While others, like the invertebrates, are quite obscure.

These animals without a spine,
Are fascinating in design.
Some burrow in the sand and dirt,
While others cling to rocks and lurk.

Horseshoe crabs are arthropods,
With armored shells and spiky rods.
They molt as they grow and change,
And scuttle along the ocean's range.

Algae grow and cling to the jetty,
As the tides ebb and flow with plenty.
Currents bring larvae from far away,
Who burrow and grow to their adult display.

So let's explore the ocean's floor,
And learn about the creatures we adore.
The invertebrates, eroding sand and stone,
And the horseshoe crabs with their unique tone.

Reflections

1. What are invertebrates and how are they different from vertebrates?
2. How do horseshoe crabs protect themselves from predators?
3. How do larvae from different parts of the ocean end up in the same place?
4. Why are algae important for marine ecosystems?
5. What are some other interesting creatures that live in the ocean and why are they important?