Exploring Movement at Monterey Bay Aquarium: A Journey with Sea Creatures

MONTEREY, California — While asleep, we might find freedom in our dreams, but for many sea creatures, movement is a necessity. To explore how animals like Giant Seabass, jellyfish, and octopuses navigate their world, I visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium early one morning, greeted by senior biologist Mary McCarthy and director Erica Kelly.

“A lot of animals move to eat or to avoid becoming prey,” McCarthy said, noting interesting adaptations that help these ocean dwellers thrive. For instance, octopuses can squirt water to communicate and aid their movement, while also changing their skin color and texture for camouflage.

<p“I would love to have the ability to squirt ink,” I joked, recalling my own struggles with writer’s block.

Previously, I was captivated by the jellyfish, their graceful movements reminding me of ballet dancers or clouds in the sky. Watching them brings a feeling of tranquility that momentarily lifts my worries.

McCarthy explained how a school of sardines swims cohesively. “Fish have a lateral line with sensory hairs, allowing them to sense their neighbors,” she said. “While smaller fish like sardines may need speed, larger ones like Giant Seabass don’t rush.” The Giant Seabass, with a stoic demeanor, occupies its space as if to say it’s confident and secure.

Visitors, too, engage in movement around the aquarium. McCarthy observed, “Sometimes people lie down and just watch the sardines.” The captivating display offers an experience unlike any in the open ocean.

Finally, we went to see the Great Pacific Octopus. He swam gracefully in his tank, revealing an unexpected awareness of his audience. His striking orange color and elegant movements held my attention deeply.

This interaction with the octopus sparked a profound shift in my perspective. His ability to connect, combined with a sense of consciousness, made me appreciate the true nature of life’s relationships.

“What is it to recognize another being’s existence?” I pondered. This moment at the aquarium reminded me of our shared space on this planet.

Patrice Vecchione, a writer and poet from Del Rey Oaks, has authored several books, including “My Shouting, Shattered, Whispering Voice: A Guide to Writing Poetry & Speaking Your Truth.” Her work encourages readers to nurture their relationships with nature and creativity.