Tagalog Sea Creatures: Filipino Names of Ocean Animals (Mga Hayop sa Dagat sa Tagalog)

The Philippines is an archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, surrounded by some of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. Learning the Tagalog names of sea creatures is a fun way to explore Filipino culture, appreciate local biodiversity, and expand your vocabulary — whether you’re teaching kids, traveling, or learning Tagalog yourself.

Common Fish (Mga Karaniwang Isda)

These fish are commonly found in Filipino markets, dishes, and coastal waters.

• Isda – Fish
• Bangus – Milkfish
• Galunggong – Round scad
• Tilapia – Tilapia
• Dilis – Anchovy

Marine Mammals (Mga Mamalya sa Dagat)

These gentle giants are often spotted in Philippine waters.

• Balyena – Whale
• Dolpin – Dolphin
• Dugong – Dugong / sea cow

Shellfish and Crustaceans (Mga Kabibe at Krustaseo)

Popular in Filipino cuisine and coastal communities.

• Alimasag – Crab
• Hipon – Shrimp
• Talaba – Oyster
• Tahong – Mussel

Other Sea Creatures (Iba Pang Nilalang sa Dagat)

A mix of fascinating marine animals found across Philippine seas.

• Pating – Shark
• Pagong – Turtle
• Pugita – Octopus
• Dikya – Jellyfish

Sea‑Related Phrases (Mga Katagang Nauugnay sa Dagat)

Here are beautiful Tagalog expressions inspired by the ocean:

• “Ang dagat ay buhay.” – The sea is life.
• “Nasa dagat kami.” – We are at sea.
• “Magdaragat siya.” – He is a seafarer.
• “Tabíng‑dagat ang pupuntahan namin.” – We are going to the beach.
• “Kapatagan ng dagat.” – Sea level.
• “Kami ay naglalakad sa baybaying‑dagat.” – We are walking along the shoreline.
• “Nasa ibayong dagat ang kanyang trabaho.” – His job is overseas.

These phrases help you describe ocean scenes and everyday life near the sea.

Example Sentences (Mga Halimbawang Pangungusap)

• “Ang dolpin ay lumalangoy sa karagatan.” – The dolphin is swimming in the ocean.
• “Ang mga bahura ay tahanan ng maraming isda.” – Coral reefs are home to many fish.
• “Ang mga balyena ay kumakanta ng magagandang awitin.” – Whales sing beautiful songs.
• “Naglalangoy kami sa dagat.” – We are swimming in the sea.
• “Ang dagat ay napakaganda.” – The sea is very beautiful.
• “Ang dugong ay kumakain ng damong‑dagat.” – The dugong eats seaweed.
• “Ang mga pawikan ay naglalayag sa dagat.” – Sea turtles are sailing in the sea.

Learning Activities (Mga Gawain sa Pag‑aaral)

Perfect for kids, classrooms, or homeschooling:

• “Ano ang kulay ng isda.” – What color is the fish.
• “Ilang paa mayroon ang alimango.” – How many legs does a crab have.
• “Ano ang kinakain ng pawikan.” – What does a sea turtle eat.
• “Ano ang tawag sa malalaking isda.” – What are big fish called.
• “Ano ang tawag sa mga hayop sa dagat.” – What are sea animals called.

These questions help reinforce vocabulary while encouraging curiosity about marine life.

Tips for Learning Tagalog Sea Creatures

• Start with common fish and marine mammals.
• Practice pronunciation by listening to native speakers.
• Use flashcards or vocabulary lists for memorization.
• Learn about coral reefs, mangroves, and other marine habitats.
• Watch documentaries or videos about Philippine marine life.

The more you connect the words to real animals and environments, the easier they are to remember.