SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology

SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology

The underwater world is full of incredible creatures that often go unnoticed. From colourful sea stars and delicate shrimp to fascinating octopus, crabs and corals, marine invertebrates make up some of the most diverse and important life forms in our oceans.

The SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Speciality introduces you to these amazing animals, helping you understand their biology, behaviour, adaptations and the vital roles they play within marine ecosystems.

SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Speciality Course Overview

The SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology program provides you with the knowledge needed to identify common marine invertebrates, understand their characteristics and discover how they interact with their environment.

This dry speciality is perfect for divers, snorkellers, ocean enthusiasts and anyone who wants to look closer at the smaller creatures that make our oceans so fascinating.

Through SSI digital learning and optional classroom discussion, you will explore the incredible diversity of marine invertebrates and gain a greater appreciation of the underwater world.

This Speciality certification also counts as one of the four Speciality certifications required for your SSI Master Scuba Diver certification.

What do I need to start the SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Speciality Course?

• You need to be 10 years old or over

• No previous diving certification is required

• An interest in marine life and the underwater environment

What will I do during the SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Speciality Course?

Your learning begins with the SSI digital materials, where you will explore the incredible variety of invertebrate life found throughout the world's oceans.

During the course you will learn:

🦀 The different groups of marine invertebrates and how they are classified
🦐 The biology and unique adaptations of invertebrates
🐙 How animals such as octopus, squid, crustaceans and molluscs survive underwater
⭐ The importance of echinoderms such as sea stars and sea urchins
🪸 The role corals and other invertebrates play within marine ecosystems
🌊 How marine invertebrates interact with their environment and other species
🔎 How to observe and identify invertebrates responsibly while diving

You will discover that some of the most fascinating underwater encounters are often found hiding in the smallest places.

What materials will I use during the SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Speciality Course?

As part of the course you will receive access to the SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology digital learning materials through the SSI App.

You can complete the course entirely through eLearning or choose to join an optional classroom session with one of our SSI Professionals to explore the topics further, discuss real-world examples and share experiences.

How long does the SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Speciality Course take?

eLearning Only:
Complete the course at your own pace through the SSI App.

eLearning + Classroom Session:
Approximately 2–3 hours, including discussion, examples and exploration of fascinating marine species.

Any other costs?

There are no additional diving costs for this course as it is a dry speciality.

What’s my next adventure?

Once you start looking closer, you’ll realise every dive site is full of life waiting to be discovered.

Marine invertebrates are often the hidden stars of the underwater world, and understanding them can completely change the way you experience your dives.

Why not combine this speciality with Marine Ecology, Fish Identification, Nudibranch Ecology, or Underwater Photography to develop your knowledge and appreciation of the underwater environment?

It’s not all about training… you should have the knowledge, but most importantly come diving with us and apply what you have learnt. Join our trips, share your discoveries, make new friends and continue exploring the amazing world beneath the surface.