The magical underwater world of the Galapagos Islands

Scuba divers from all over the world flock to the Galapagos Islands. Many enthusiasts claim that it is the home of the most breath taking diving in the world, and it is for good reason that they say this. Home to some of the most diverse and unique life on the planet, the Galapagos are strange and fascinating, as well as strikingly beautiful. Described by early explorers as harsh and barren, they were surprised to find such an abundance of life thriving there. The Galapagos were made famous by Charles Darwin when he studied the animals and plants on these islands in 1835. His discoveries led to some of the most groundbreaking ideas and theories of any biologists. His theory of evolution was inspired by the birds and other creatures here. Those same theories changed the way we look at our planet, the animals, and even ourselves.Show more

This video takes you on a voyage under the waves, providing you with an up close look at a few of the magnificent animals that scuba divers are likely to encounter. Entering the water near Kicker Rock, divers were surrounded by salema, a small, but plentiful bait fish that congregates near the surface. A sea lion cruised under and around the bait ball, eager to catch a few for a meal. These fish feed on plankton and krill that are brought through these waters by three distinct ocean currents that converge here. It is these currents and the food source that they bring that supports all life in the Galapagos. Pacific green sea turtles also thrive here, feeding on algae and plants that live on the volcanic rock that has formed all of these islands. Manta rays, now referred to as mobula, cruise through these waters, filtering to catch their food. They are peaceful and gentle, posing no threat to humans or any large animals. Their only means of defense is rapid flight from danger. They are graceful and beautiful and always a highlight for any scuba diver. Surprisingly intelligent, they are believed to be self-aware. They have huge brains and are thought to be capable of problem solving and communicating with each other.

The ocean bottom is made up of volcanic rock that was forced to the surface. Among these rocks, octopus roam, using their long arms to search for food hiding in the crevices. Also highly intelligent, they are even able to change their color and texture to make them nearly invisible to predators. Sea lions are one of the octopus’ biggest predator and they patrol the waters, looking in the rocks, even at great depths. These divers were met by a colony of hunting sea lions fifty feet from the surface.

Hammerheads school in great abundance in these waters, cruising along in the current. They are actually able to alternately rest one side of their brain at a time, allowing them to swim and avoid danger while reducing brain activity to achieve a state that is similar to sleep. Although hammerhead sharks pose little threat to divers, sitting in the rocks as they school above is sure to give even the most seasoned diver a thrill.

The Galapagos Islands are beautiful above the ocean, but the underwater world around the islands is as mysterious and alluring as any place on earth.