Credits: Social Media
Marine biologist shares 7 common myths about the ocean you might not know
The ocean covers a staggering 71% of the world’s surface and there are many myths and misconceptions about it.
A marine biologist has gone viral on TikTok after sharing some things you might not know about the huge expanse of water that many are so fearful of.
Common ocean myths and misconceptions
“As someone who studies the ocean, let’s talk about some common ocean myths and misconceptions,” Skyler Roberts said.
1. Narwhals are real
First up, she explained that loads of people think narwhals are mythical creatures from fiction, but they are actually real animals.
Commonly called the ‘unicorn of the sea’, the whale species is native to the Arctic and the long horn on their head is actually a tooth.
2. Blobfish don’t look like that
When you think of a blobfish, you probably picture that strange meme that’s been circling the internet for years, but that’s not what they look like.
Blobfish are deep sea animals that live at the bottom of the ocean where there is lots of pressure, so their body implodes when they are brought to the surface.
3. The megalodon doesn’t exist
Many think the megalodon, a giant mackerel shark that lived approximately 23 to 3.6 million years ago, still exists, but the marine biologist said that’s impossible.
“People ask me all the time if I think the megalodon still exists and my answer is no,” she revealed. “They do not still exist. There is no way.”
4. Dolphins are not cute
The next misconception is that people think dolphins are friendly and cute all the time, but that isn’t always the case.
Skyler said they can be friendly, but are capable of attacking humans, killing other marine life and even kidnapping other dolphins’ babies.
5. There aren’t that many sharks
“People are under the impression that there are billions and millions of sharks in the ocean, but actually 25% of all sharks are critically endangered,” she continued.
Shark populations are declining rapidly across the world and many are at risk of becoming extinct in the not-so-distant future.
6. Sting rays are not agressive
Another common myth is that sting rays are really aggressive and dangerous, mainly due to Steve Irwin’s death, but they are actually pretty docile.
What happened to Steve Irwin was a big freak accident and he died because the stinger went through his heart, so he died from the puncture not from the venom.
7. There are bugs in the ocean
Many don’t realise that the sea floor has loads of microorganisms and ‘bugs’ in it just like soil does on land.
The marine biologist revealed that if you went deep into the ocean and pulled out a sediment sample, 70% of the species you would find would have never been discovered before.
Skyler Roberts holds a bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Marine Biology and currently works as a Sea Turtle Research Technician for the American Conservation Experience.
