The wunderpus octopus, Wunderpus photogenicus, is a marvel of nature. Its unique patterns, shape-shifting abilities, and quirky appearance make it a fascinating creature in coastal waters.
Lumpsuckers: Adorable spherical fish with adhesive discs, hiding in algae. Species like Atlantic and Pacific spiny lumpsuckers add humor and charm.
Pleasing fungus beetles: Diverse family of harmless beetles feeding on fungus, some pollinators, but a few notorious pests.
Pink fairy armadillo: Smallest species, pinkish shell, elusive, threatened by climate change and poaching, enigmatic behavior.
Rasberry crazy ant: Invasive species, electrical wire damage, resistant to pesticides, now known as tawny crazy ants.
Satanic leaf-tailed gecko: Unique appearance, camouflaged as a leaf, found in Madagascar, nocturnal insect hunter.
Tasselled wobbegong: Colorful camouflaged shark, sit and wait predator, distinctive head fringes, found on ocean floor.
Hellbender: Largest North American amphibian, monstrous size, strange appearance, known as "snot otter."
Chicken turtle: Southeastern US native, once eaten for its chicken-like taste, long neck for quick strikes, omnivorous diet.
Star-nosed mole: Unique nose for speedy foraging, 25,000 sensory receptors, fastest foraging mammal, found in eastern Canada, semi-aquatic.