Exploring the Coast with Hannah: The Four Zones of the Rocky Intertidal

Introduction

• Location: Monterey Bay
• Objective: Learn about the four zones of the rocky intertidal
  • Splash Zone
  • High Zone
  • Mid Zone
  • Low Zone
• Focus: Different types of algal and invertebrate species, importance of these zones in studying rocky intertidal habitats

Splash Zone

• Characteristics:
  • Mostly bare rock
  • Only highest tides (e.g., storm tides) reach this zone
  • Minimal species settlement
• Common Inhabitants:
  • Birds for resting and nesting
  • Few snails, titans, barnacles

High Zone

• Characteristics:
  • Exposed to elements (sun, air) for long periods
  • Only the highest tides of the day reach this zone
• Common Species:
  • Scouring pad alga (indicator of high zone)
  • Limpets, barnacles

Mid Zone

• Characteristics:
  • Dominated by mussel beds
  • Constantly affected by wave action
  • Species withstand exposure to elements
• Common Species:
  • California mussels (shelled to prevent desiccation)
  • Turban snails
  • Pink acorn barnacles (resemble small volcanoes)
  • Limpets, shore crabs, sea stars
  • Purple sea urchins, giant green anemones
• Adaptations: Special adaptations to survive harsh conditions

Low Zone

• Characteristics:
  • Less exposure to elements compared to other zones
  • Contains surf grass beds
• Common Species:
  • Surf grass (provides habitat)
  • Iridescent algae (slippery, rubber-like)
  • Coralline algae, rock weeds
  • Sunburst anemone

Importance of Studying Rocky Intertidal Zones

• Each zone has specific species
• Important for tracking ecosystem health and changes over time

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore more about intertidal zones
• Weekly updates available on the museum website
• Engagement with the audience: "Have a great day!"