Seasonal changes are found underwater, but unlike above the water few people have the opportunity to witness the seasons of the sea. Living in the Cayman Islands we are afforded the luxury of diving every week with our kids, and we have observed facinating seasonal changes underwater. We definately noted the water temperature changes when we have found ourselves adding a 3mm wetsuit over our swimsuits. Then in February we wondered if we should'nt have brought our dry suits with us from Texas. What a thought to have, especially when the water temperature during the winter season stays around 77 degrees.



We have discovered in our explorations various marine life migrating to different areas around the island, as they move to and from deeper waters, and the affects of the water temperature changes on the algae and marine life. One of our most unique observations has been the changes in the aglea growth and die off, when water temperature changes even slightly just a few degrees.

Algae the color of molasses, appeared during March.

In July 2006 the Silversides which usually show up in Devils Grotto at the Eden Rock dive site, and usually stay for only around two weeks, stayed six weeks. We took every diving friend we knew out to see them.



Another facinating discovery were that the lobsters seemed to know that lobster seaon was over, and so they came out from hiding and were everywhere. We found this pair happily watching us swim by, without a fear in the world. A lot of mating took place as well and we were able to observe the "lobster dance" as they romanced each other.

During September and October the algae growth from the spring and summer turns light brown and churns up to shore on the waves. During this time more marine life follows it into the shallower water. In the entrance cove in our backyard, we currently have an octopus living there, as well as many additional fish we haven't had at other times during the year.

Once the rainy fall weather ends, the water understandably returns to greater visability. The visability of course is always good in the Cayman Islands, but in the high tourist season between November and March, it is supberb!!! Come down and dive with us. Email to let us know when: mlthornton@exploreunderwater.com








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Photo of Monte at Pirates Week Festivale 2008

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Web site first created 14 March, 1996