A unique ecosystem at the fusion of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico surrounds Key West. Here, you’ll find the world’s third-largest coral barrier reef, much of it protected by NOAA’s Marine Sanctuary and miles of shallow backcountry sand flats. This environment supports a diverse ecology of marine life unique to the Florida Keys and the Caribbean Basin. Some species have habitats in other parts of the world’s oceans, but many are unique to Key West. Read on to learn more about the marine life found in the Florida Keys.
Parrotfish
These colorful fish get their name from their parrot beak-like mouth and how they use it to chomp on coral, cleaning it of algae and distributing coral sands to facilitate healthy coral spawning. Varieties include rainbow, midnight blue and stoplight, to name a few. They’re among the most beautiful tropical fish in the ocean. You have a great chance of swimming with them if you go snorkeling in Key West.
Damselfish
Damselfish are a species of small triangular-shaped tropical fish with many varieties. In Key West, you’ll likely spot Sergeant Major Damselfish with yellow and black stripes swimming in schools.
Barracuda
The barracuda is one of the ocean predators commonly found in Key West’s shallow waters. These long, silvery fish with sharp teeth are impossible to mistake, and although they may appear menacing, the chances of you running into any trouble with one are extremely rare. A helpful tip is to remove your jewelry before snorkeling, as barracudas can mistake shiny objects for silverfish.
Loggerhead Sea Turtles
Various sea turtles inhabit the Florida Keys, the most common of which are loggerhead sea turtles. These gentle, graceful marine reptiles have a life span as long as humans and can grow as large as 110 inches. They get their name from their enormous heads.
Yellowtail Snapper
Yellowtail snapper is the most abundant fish swimming in large schools in Key West. This species is a popular meal for marine life and humans alike. You’ll likely see it on menus throughout the island. Yellowtail snappers get their names from their shiny yellow bodies and tails.
Grouper
Groupers are also common throughout Key West waters and another popular entrée at restaurants throughout town. Varieties include black and gag groupers, striped groupers and the enormous goliath grouper.
Mahi-Mahi
Mahi-mahi are pelagic fish, so you’ll likely miss one while snorkeling at the reef. They’re a prize catch by deep-sea fishermen and appear on restaurant menus. Mahi-mahi have very colorful yellow-green skin and a blunt nose.
Hogfish
Hogfish are one of the most popular fish in Key West and among the most delicious when pan-fried. Their name comes from their hog-like mouth and pinkish coloring.
Stingrays
Stingrays are an exciting species to spot in the water, and they come in many varieties in Key West, including spotted eagle and manta rays. You’ll spot these bottom-feeders gliding along the ocean floor or partially submerged in the sandy bottom. Look for their eyes peering above the surface.
Spiny Lobster
In Key West, our lobsters differ from the more commonly known Maine lobsters. Our spiny lobsters have antennae instead of claws, and their sweet meat makes them just as much a delicacy.
Manatees
Nicknamed sea cows, manatees are the gentle giants of marine mammals in the Florida Keys. They spend time in grassy areas, marinas, and canals. Although cute and friendly, it’s essential only to view them from a distance and not feed them. The encouragement of food will make a manatee’s visit more frequent. However, passing vessels and the abundance of boat propellers threaten their lives.
Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins
Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are a thrill to see every time. They’re ubiquitous in Key West, where they breed and feed in the shallow backcountry mangroves. They travel in pods and can be playful, surfing and leaping through boat wakes.
Nurse Sharks and Reef Sharks
The most common shark species in Key West are nurse sharks and reef sharks. They’re both nocturnal and relatively docile, so don’t be scared if you spot one snorkeling! Enjoy the rare sighting from a safe distance. Nurse sharks have a slightly brown tint to their skin and catfish-like body and tail. Reef sharks are a shade of gray with a more traditional shark profile.
Frigate Birds
Frigate birds glide high in the sky across the jet stream out to sea. They’re considered good-looking by sailors, as they signal that land is close by. They’re easily recognizable by their forked tail.
Cormorants
Cormorants are aquatic birds and talented fishers. They often dive from the mangroves into the shallow waters, searching for juvenile fish and sunbathing with their black wings outstretched.
Brown Pelicans
Pelicans are a common migratory group that populates the Florida Keys in the wintertime. They’re easy to spot with their stumpy bodies and exaggerated beaks. Pelicans are also excellent fishers, diving from great heights into the ocean for their catch.
