One of the best things about diving a new site is finding interesting fish in the area and learning about their behavior. What’s even better is when the PADI Divemasters know where the critters hide out and let you in on the secret. We spoke with the PADI Pros at Anse Chastanet for their favorite finds on the dive-friendly Caribbean isle of St. Lucia.
Frogfish
This elusive creature is a challenge to find and can be a photographer’s kryptonite. For protection from predators, frogfish are camouflage experts and able to blend into a variety of backgrounds. One of the most interesting things about a frogfish is the fishing lure hanging over its nose to attract prey. Come feeding time, its mouth can expand to 12 times its normal size. Finding a frogfish can turn a good dive into an amazing one.
Octopus
This complex critter is one of the most intelligent characters in the sea. To protect themselves, they can change their skin to mimic their environment almost immediately. And if they do get caught, they can lose an arm and grow it back later or briefly blind their predator by inking them. The octopus can range in size from 2 inches to 30 feet long
Flying Gurnards
Divers usually see flying gurnards before they even get in the water. Although these fish are bottom dwellers, flying gurnards have a tendency to soar above the surface before diving back to the depths. Their elongated bodies, which can grow as long as 20 inches, make them a favorite for divers both above and below the surface.
Eels
Eels get a bad rep among new divers because of their resemblance to a snake and their mouthful of sharp teeth. In reality, eels are relatively harmless unless provoked and prefer to stay in the confinement of the crevices along the reef. Finding a tail peeking out of the coral is a telltale sign one is nearby.
Seahorse
These underwater stallions don’t move around as much as their topside counterparts. In fact, they tend to stay perfectly calm relaxing with their tails wrapped around a plant or coral. Much like the frogfish, seahorses are the masters at blending into their environment. And it if you’re lucky enough to spot a pregnant one with a protruding belly, it’s actually a male. Male seahorses carry eggs in their pouches anywhere from 10 days to 6 months.
Flamingo Tongue Snail
Often found crawling on sea fans and soft corals, flamingo tongue Snails are unique in their appearance and behaviour. At first glance, they appear to have a vibrant orange and black spotted mantle which many mistake for their shell. If they feel threatened, the mantle retracts, and reveals a pure white shell beneath it! These interesting critters can be spotted year-round, with the best chances when visibility is clearest (December to May).
Spotted Drum
Another creature with an interesting name in Saint Lucia is the Spotted Drum. The most striking appearance of Spotted Drums is that of the Juveniles. Their dorsal finds are surprisingly long, creating a ribbon-like appearance that ripples behind them as they swim! Spotted Drums are often spotted on overhangs and dark caves and at the edge of reefs, but can easily be seen thanks to their black and white colouring. If they’re on your must-see list, visit during the dry season for the best visibility (December to May).
Ready to check out these creatures for yourself?
St. Lucia is full of these exciting species, and more! To gain the best advice on dive sites and best practices when diving in St. Lucia, be sure to book with a PADI 5-star dive center. or, make things completely stress-free and book your accommodation and diving all in one place with PADI Travel.