Page 200 - (DK) Super Shark Encyclopedia: And Other Creatures of the Deep

HIDDEN IN

THE DEPTHS

SHIPWRECKS

There are around three million shipwrecks lying
on the ocean bed and the oldest have been there for
more than three thousand years. Ships sink as a result
of accidents at sea and the cold, salty water helps
prevent decay. Marine life soon takes over as corals
grow on the wrecks and fish arrive. Over time, many
other species make shipwrecks their home until this
new habitat is crowded with all sorts of ocean life.

Sharks look for
easy meals

RICH PICKINGS
The wide variety of life found on a
wreck attracts big predators that make
the most of available prey. Reef sharks
patrol older shipwrecks that are
home to smaller animals.

SAFE HAVEN
A shipwreck provides shelter for
ocean animals, hiding them from
bigger predators. Animals use them
the same way they would use natural
caves and rocky crevices.

An old bottle makes
a safe home

UNDER
INVESTIGATION
Marine biologists are
interested in understanding
how life can colonize wrecks.
Archaeologists use shipwrecks
to study how humans lived and
198 used the oceans many years ago.