Atlantic Ocean Habitat

The Terms to Know: Coast-the part of the land near the sea Barrier island- A long, relatively narrow island running parallel to the mainland Dune- a mound of sand, formed by waves crashing Reef- a ridge of jagged rock, coral, or sand just above or below the surface of the sea Continental shelf-is an underwater landmass which extends from a continent Sandbar-a ridge of sand formed in a river or along a shore

Animals: The sand tiger shark is very large and has a mouthful of sharp, spike-like teeth. Loggerhead turtles are seen in the Atlantic Ocean. Right whales can grow up to 60 feet long and weigh up to 100 tons.  Today, the right whale is endangered, there are only 350 left, so instead of hunting them, people often watch these whales for pleasure. The right whale is also the Georgia State Marine Mammal.

Plants: Gray's Reef  has both plant and animal life. Gray's Reef which is off the Georgia coast known as a "live bottom" habitat. Gray's Reef is important because the rock provides a home for hundreds of different plants and animals.  Many plants thrive on Gray's Reef; including  seaweed, algae, and seagrass.

Climate: Hot, humid climate, cool winters.

Soil Sandy soil