Introduction

Tidepools are a dynamic interface between the sea and the land.  Daily tidal fluctuations create an ever-changing environment where organisms must be highly adapted to their environment in order to survive.  Tidepools can be divided into 4 zones, based upon time of exposure above sea level and by the index species that live within them.  These zones are shown below and described in detail on this website.  You are required to wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed footwear on this trip.  You will get wet up to your mid-thighs (at least)

 

 

This diagram shows the splash, upper, middle and lower zones in relation to the high and low tide marks. The splash is almost never uncovered with water the lower is almost always covered. Each zone is defined by the common species (index species) found there.

 

Summary of Index Species Upper and Splash Zones: Periwinkle snails, Fingernail limpets, Buckshot barnacles Middle Zone: Mussels,  Gooseneck Barnacles, Acorn Barnacles Lower Zone: Ochre stars, Solitary anemones, Aggregate Anemones, Octopus, Sea Hare   Cool pictures of organisms found only at the lowest of tides.