Synergy: Anglerfish

Anglerfish are bony fish known for their bioluminescence that is used to lure prey. Found worldwide, anglerfish dwell on the sea floor, close to the sea floor or in the deep sea.

Read the recently published nonfiction picture book, then learn more at the websites:

ANGLERFISH: THE SEADEVIL OF THE DEEP by Elaine M. Alexander and illustrated by Fiona Fogg dives 13,000 feet under the ocean to explore a primordial fish known for its teeth and bioluminescence. This informational picture book follows the life cycle of the anglerfish and concludes with additional information about its life and related fish. ARC courtesy of Candlewick Press.

DEEP-SEA ANGLERFISH from Monterey Bay Aquarium provides an overview of the fish along with photographs, video, conservation information, and cool facts. To read the page, go to https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/animals/animals-a-to-z/deep-sea-anglerfish.

Science Magazine from YouTube provides the first footage of deep-sea anglerfish pair. To view the video, go to https://youtu.be/anDIlMVgNwk.

App Review: Amazing World Ocean

AMAZING WORLD OCEAN is an extraordinary 3D science encyclopedia app.

This impressive experience begins with users scrolling down deep into the ocean to discover its inhabitants.

Divided into six layers including schools, coral reef, dolphins, whales, sharks, and the deep ocean, the app features information about over 50 ocean species.

Users click on the species of interest and scroll through informational pages displayed as long, multi-screen infographics. Each entry begins with an image and visual scale reference. Next, a couple paragraphs of background information is presented. While the text size is small and can’t be enlarged, high-quality, optional audio narration is provided to support reading. In some cases, creature sounds are also available.

A figure containing the length, weight, and depth of the creature is shown along with a habitat map. A series of interesting facts provide depth to the content of the page. Again, the text size is small and it’s all uppercase, but readable. Amazing 3D views make users feel like they’re swimming with the sea creatures. Finally, a gallery of photos bring the creature to life.

The outstanding illustrations and rich background music throughout add to the appeal. The setting options provides the choice to turn off the music.

With no in-app purchases or advertisements, this app would be an excellent addition to a school library collection. This reference app would appeal to all grades.

Look for AMAZING WORLD OCEAN on the “best of 2015” app lists.

Watch the amazing making of matte paint for the iPad app. Go to https://youtu.be/fTLzK3mvUVo.

Learn more at http://amazingworldapps.com/.

Developed by FourPlus Studio and distributed by Dimitar Itskov February 19, 2015.