Works of Wonders Beyond Words

In God's infinite wisdom, He created the earth and all living creatures on land, in the air, and under the sea. They are great in number, in sizes, and in variety. "So far scientists have named and classified more than 1½ million animals. Over half of these are types of insects and other species are discovered each year. Scientists believe there may be from 2 million to as many as 50 million kinds of animals alive today." (from World Book Encyclopedia) The earth is full of beauties and treasures, which are riches God has bestowed upon us to enjoy. The biodiversity is truly fascinating. All the amazing wonders of nature reveal the character and attributes of God, especially His wisdom, creativity, power, majesty, preeminence, grace, generosity, and goodness. Just look at the sea alone. It is vast and spacious (about 70% of the earth's surface is covered by oceans). The oceans provide 99% of the living space on the planet, containing 50-80% of all life. So far only less than 10% of that space has been explored. There are innumerable creatures (more than 230,000 known species) in the oceans, both large and small...from blue whale to Thor Amboinensis (aka sexy shrimp). 

Here are some cool facts about some ocean animals:-

• An electric eel is known to produce enough electricity to light up 10 electric bulbs.
• An octopus has 3 hearts and has blue blood.
  
• At 188 decibels, the calls of blue whales is the loudest sound made by any animal in the world. Their whistle can travel up to 500 miles.
  
• Seahorses are the only animals in which the male, not the female, give birth and care for the young.
  
• Sea sponges have no head, mouth, eyes, feelers, bones, heart, lungs, or brain, yet they are alive.
• There are more than 500 shark species. 80% of them grow to less than 1.6 m and are unable to hurt people or rarely encounter people.
• The sea otter has the most densely furred and warmest coat in the animal kingdom, with over 800,000 hairs per square inch.
• Pinecone fish have natural headlights (a light-producing organ on each side of their head).
  
  Prayer: Lord, Your works are too wonderful beyond words! I am in awe of all that You lovingly and beautifully created for us. I am so grateful for Your amazing work of creation. Nature refreshes and calms me. You, my awesome Creator and Redeemer, are worthy of all my praise and worship!