10 Amazing Marine Animals To Spot In India’s Waters

OT Staff

Sea Turtles

India hosts five of the seven sea turtle species: Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill, Loggerhead, and Leatherback. They nest in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Odisha.

A Sea Turtle swims in its habitat | Shutterstock

Whale Sharks

The whale shark, the largest fish, can grow up to 40 feet long. Despite their size, they are gentle filter feeders, primarily consuming plankton. Found in Gujarat's waters, especially near Saurashtra, conservation efforts protect them from fishing and habitat loss.

A view of Whale Shark inside water | Shutterstock

Dugongs

Dugongs, or sea cows, are shy marine mammals grazing on seagrass in the Gulf of Mannar and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Rare and elusive, they play a critical role in maintaining healthy seagrass beds, vital for the marine ecosystem’s health.

A pair of Dugongs inside water | Shutterstock

Manta Rays

Manta rays, with wing-like fins reaching up to 23 feet, are graceful swimmers and gentle filter feeders. Common in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, they are popular among divers due to their impressive size and peaceful nature.

A Manta Ray in its habitat | Shutterstock

Humpback Dolphins

Humpback dolphins, recognizable by the hump beneath their dorsal fin, are found along India’s western coast. Known for playful behaviour, they are often spotted in Goa and Maharashtra’s coastal waters.

Two Humpback Dolphins do their antics in water | Shutterstock

Barracudas

Predatory and fast, barracudas are commonly found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep. Known for their torpedo-shaped bodies and sharp teeth, they are formidable hunters yet pose little danger to humans.

Shot of large Barracudas underwater | Shutterstock

Sea Snakes

Highly venomous but generally docile, sea snakes inhabit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Gulf of Mannar. Skilled swimmers, they can stay submerged for long periods.

A view of a banded Sea Snake | Shutterstock

Napoleon Wrasses

Found in the coral reefs of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Napoleon wrasses are large, vibrant fish known for the hump on their forehead. Growing up to six feet, they are a favourite among divers.

A look at a Napoleon Wrass | Shutterstock

Eagle Rays

Eagle rays, identified by their spot patterns and bird-like heads, are common in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. They have wingspans up to 10 feet and are bottom feeders, foraging for molluscs and crustaceans.

A view of Eagle Rays | Shutterstock

White-Tip Reef Sharks

White-tip reef sharks, distinguished by their white-tipped fins, are common in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' coral reefs. Nocturnal hunters, they rest in caves during the day.

A shot of White-Tip Reef Sharks | Shutterstock

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