Discover the reef’s spineless superstars.
Explore the extraordinary world of sponges, jellyfish, sea stars, nudibranchs, octopus and squid—and earn your SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Specialty certification.
Most ocean animals are invertebrates.
From simple sponges to highly intelligent octopus, marine invertebrates fill almost every habitat and ecological role in the ocean. This SSI specialty explores their evolution, body plans, behaviour and the connections that hold reef ecosystems together.
It is ideal for divers, snorkellers, photographers and ocean lovers who want to notice more of the reef’s small wonders and understand why they matter.
Three moves. A closer look at the reef’s hidden majority.
Start at home, bring your questions to the classroom, then choose whether to take that knowledge beneath the surface.
Explore the digital learning
Use the MySSI app to explore invertebrate evolution, body plans and groups—from nematodes and sponges to sea stars, nudibranchs and squid.
Before the courseClassify the weird and wonderful
Work with your SSI Instructor to connect structure, behaviour and survival strategies across this astonishingly diverse group.
About 3 hoursTake it into the blue
Certified divers can add an optional dive and practise spotting, identifying and responsibly observing invertebrates in their reef habitats.
Optional adventurePress play. Go deeper.
Begin with a Blue Oceans conservation story, then get a feel for the colourful reef world you will explore with Ocean Tribe in Diani.
Blue Oceans: Dealing with the Underwater World
See why better choices above and below the surface matter for coral reefs and the countless invertebrates that keep them working.
Dive Diani with Ocean Tribe
A quick look at the warm-water reefs and the team that brings your ecology learning to life.
Learn it. Then live it.
If you are already certified, add an ocean dive and turn your new identification and observation skills into a real reef treasure hunt with the Ocean Tribe team.
- Open Water Diver certification required for the dive
- May be combined with an Open Water Diver course
- Planned around conditions and local sightings
Everything you need to arrive ready.
Who can join?
The classroom specialty is open to anyone interested in marine life, reefs and conservation. Minimum age is 10.
What is included?
- SSI digital learning
- All training materials
- Transfers within Diani
- SSI specialty certification on completion
What to bring
- Water bottle and sun protection
- Swimsuit and towel if adding a dive
- Your curiosity and creature questions
Marine invertebrate course FAQs
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No. Anyone with an interest can join the classroom specialty. You only need an Open Water Diver certification if you would like to add the optional dive.
Will I see marine invertebrates on the optional dive?
Specific species can never be guaranteed, but marine invertebrates are found throughout reef ecosystems. Your instructor will help you slow down, look closely and recognise more of them.
Which animals will I learn about?
The course ranges from nematodes, sponges and jellyfish to sea stars, nudibranchs, octopus and squid, exploring both simple and complex invertebrates.
How do I check availability?
The specialty is offered daily. Check the online calendar or contact Ocean Tribe by WhatsApp or phone for live availability.
Ready to notice the reef’s hidden majority?
Start the SSI Marine Invertebrate Ecology Specialty in Diani Beach and discover the evolution, ecology and surprising lives of the ocean’s spineless majority.
