ROCKPOOL DISCOVERY

Crabs belong to the Phylum Arthropoda, which means that they characteristically have an exo-skeleton and
segmented legs and two body parts where the head and thorax are fused together (cephalothorax) and the
abdomen.

Shark egg cases are an absolute marvel of Nature. They mimic the sea algae which they are laid amongst. This gives the growing shark pup perfect camouflage from predators until they are ready to hatch.

Did you know that sea stars live in an incredibly ‘topsy-turvy’ world. their bottoms (blastopore) are on their heads and their mouth is on their bottoms!

Hermit crabs don’t make their shells, they steal them from a mollusc (snail). No bills no rent ...they are always on holidays!

Who would have thought!? It’s the male seahorse that gives birth to the babies!

When threatened, globefish rapidly inflate themselves with water or air to become spherical in shape. This causes the spines to stand out from the body, making it very difficult for predators to attack.

Did you know that the little penguin is the smallest penguin species in the world, and the only blue penguin in colour! It's scientific name Eudyptula minor means 'great little diver!'.

With a ‘do’ like Tina Turner from the eighties, sea urchins have a protective covering of spines to protect themselves from predators,

Sea cucumbers are echinoderms are cousins to sea stars and sea urchins. They characteristically have tube feet. In many Asian countries sea cucumbers are regarded as a delicacy.

Octopuses are characterized by their eight arms,usually bearing suction cups. Octopuses are among the most intelligent and behaviorally flexible of all invertebrates. Nocturnal in nature, octopus are rarely seen.

More information about this workshop

What is our Rock-pool Discovery program all about?

In this one-hour interactive workshop your Students will be introduced to the amazing ecosystems and inhabitants of Port Phillip Bay.

Discover what an Intertidal Zone is, and learn about the various species which live in this biodiverse rich environment.

We’ll also discuss the important role that each and every species plays in this fragile ecosystem, and the impact mankind has on Port Phillip Bay and our Oceans

How many students may participate?

An absolute maximum of thirty children may participate in this program. We pride ourselves on a quality, engaging experience. Animal welfare is paramount to us. Multiple sessions for more than 30 children can be arranged on the same day if required.

What is our curriculum focus?

Students will learn about concepts such as:

What is an echinoderm, fish, mollusc, crustacean?
Adaptations
Intertidal habitats
The ecological niche of each animal, and the importance of conserving them. After all, every animal has a job to do!
Amazing fun facts!

What live animals should you expect to visit your classroom?

ECHINODERMS, Sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers FISH sea horse, puffer fish, Port Jackson shark + egg case CRUSTACEANS spider crabs, shore crab MOLLUSCS elephant snail, octopus (seasonal) + more!

Our Most Popular Educational Shows

AUSTRALIAN
ANIMALS

LIFE CYCLES &
REPRODUCTION

BACKYARD
DIVERSITY

INECT-A-MANIA
& MINIMEASTS

ENDANGERED
SPECIES