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Marine Life in Lanzarote – Especially Around Playa Blanca

Lanzarote, part of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a unique diving destination thanks to its volcanic underwater landscapes and crystal-clear waters. The marine life around the island is rich and varied, benefiting from the nutrient-rich currents of the Atlantic Ocean. Playa Blanca, located on the southern coast of Lanzarote, is a particularly popular area for divers due to its well-protected dive sites, calm conditions, and vibrant marine ecosystems.

Notable Species in Playa Blanca

Angel sharks

One of the most iconic marine species found in Lanzarote is the Angelshark. These bottom-dwelling sharks are a critically endangered species, but they thrive in the waters around Lanzarote, particularly near Playa Blanca. Angelsharks have flat, broad bodies and can often be seen lying on the sandy seabed, camouflaged by the sand, making them a rare and exciting sight for divers.

Barracudas

Barracudas are frequently spotted around Playa Blanca, and their sleek, streamlined appearance makes them easy to recognize. They are usually seen swimming in schools, patrolling the reefs and rocky areas. While they look intimidating with their sharp teeth and powerful build, they are generally not aggressive towards divers.

Trumpetfish

The Trumpetfish is another interesting species often found in the waters near Playa Blanca. These long, thin fish are known for their unique body shape and ability to hover motionlessly in the water. Trumpetfish use their elongated bodies to blend in with vertical objects like coral or even larger fish, making them masters of disguise.

Bream Species

Playa Blanca is home to a variety of bream species, which often swim in large schools, creating mesmerizing patterns as they move in unison. These species, including White Seabream, Sharpsnout Seabream, and Axillary Seabream, are common in the shallow rocky reefs and sandy areas around Playa Blanca, contributing to the vibrant and dynamic underwater scene.

Octopuses and Cuttlefish

Cephalopods like octopuses and cuttlefish are common in the waters around Lanzarote. These intelligent creatures are known for their impressive camouflage abilities and fascinating behaviors. Divers often enjoy spotting them hiding in rock crevices or gliding gracefully through the water.

Rays

Various species of rays, including Common Stingrays and Butterfly Rays, can be found near Playa Blanca. These graceful creatures are often seen resting on the sandy bottom, flapping their wings gently as they search for food. Seeing rays glide effortlessly through the water is always a highlight for divers.

Groupers and Moray Eels

Groupers, large, slow-moving fish, are commonly found near the reefs, hiding in rocky overhangs. Moray eels, too, are frequent inhabitants of the reef crevices, sometimes poking their heads out from rocks to observe divers passing by. Both species add to the excitement of exploring the more rocky, volcanic areas of the seafloor.

Other Schooling Fish

Playa Blanca’s waters are often filled with large schools of fish, such as Yellowfin Goatfish, Damselfish, and Wrasse. These colorful fish dart around the reefs, adding life and movement to the dive experience. You may also encounter Saddled Bream and Striped Sea Bream, both common in the region.

Why Playa Blanca is Ideal for Marine Life Observation

Playa Blanca’s dive sites, such as Flamingo Wall and the nearby wrecks and reefs, offer both shallow and deep water environments. The area’s combination of rocky reefs, sandy bottoms, and volcanic formations creates the perfect habitat for a wide range of species, from small reef fish to larger predators.

The region also benefits from relatively calm waters, especially in the more protected dive sites, making it accessible to divers of all experience levels. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting out, Playa Blanca’s underwater world offers endless opportunities to observe fascinating marine creatures up close.

In summary, Playa Blanca and Lanzarote as a whole are rich in marine biodiversity. From majestic Angelsharks to schools of colorful bream, the waters here provide a diverse and unforgettable diving experience. The blend of unique volcanic terrain and a thriving ecosystem makes Playa Blanca a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about marine life.

Squatina squatina

The Angelshark(Squatina squatina) is a critically endangered species of shark found in the waters around Lanzarote, particularly near Playa Blanca. Unlike typical sharks, Angelsharks have a flattened body, resembling a ray, and they spend most of their time lying camouflaged on the sandy seabed. They are ambush predators, waiting motionless to surprise prey like fish and crustaceans. Though they can appear intimidating, Angelsharks are generally docile and pose no threat to humans, making them a fascinating and rare sight for divers in the Canary Islands.

Barracudas

Barracudas are sleek, predatory fish known for their long, streamlined bodies and sharp teeth. Commonly seen in schools around Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, they are swift hunters, feeding on smaller fish. With their distinctive silver coloration and pointed snouts, barracudas can appear intimidating, but they are generally not aggressive towards divers. They often swim near reefs or open water, adding excitement to any dive due to their striking appearance and fast movements.

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