The floating algae of the Sargasso Sea offers precious food and shelter for hundreds of animal species. Small invertebrates cling to the sargassum, attracting larger predators, whose wastes in turn fertilize the algae.

The ocean currents that collect Sargassum also sweep up drifting jellyfish and the jellylike Portuguese man-of-war (Physalia physalis). Feeding on its stinging tentacles, which do not harm them, are small man-of-war fish (Nomeus gronovii). When a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) approaches, the fleeing fish are attacked by dolphinfish (Coryphaena hippurus).

Baby sea turtle © George H. H. Huey / Animals Animals

CONSERVATION: Safe Haven For Sea Turtles
When baby sea turtles emerge from their eggs and scramble into the sea, the young hatchlings head for distant feeding grounds such as the Sargasso Sea, where they feast on jellies, snails, crabs and shrimp in relative safety until they grow larger. During their most vulnerable juvenile years, seven species of endangered sea turtles find sanctuary in the sargassum.

Hiding in the weeds
Camouflaged by its leafy shape and blotchy colors, the sargassum anglerfish (Histrio histrio) pulls itself through the algae using armlike fins. To hunt, it stays perfectly still, moving only a wormlike lure on its dorsal fin. When animals approach, it suddenly sucks them into its mouth.