California’s Ocean Habitats: The Rocky Intertidal Zone

Flattop crab in a Montara State Marine Reserve tidepool. photo © Alison Young CC BY-NC 2.0

Purple sea urchins and a host of intertidal creatures at Point Lobos State Marine Reserve. photo © amyyy4004 CC BY-NC 2.0

Moonglow anemone in a Montara State Marine Reserve tidepool. photo © Alison Young CC BY-NC 2.0

Intertidal zone at Point Lobos State Marine Reserve. photo © ampersandroo CC BY-NC 2.0

Imagine a mystical world revealed when the gravitational forces from glowing celestial orbs peel back watery waves, uncovering pools teeming with life. Jewel-toned, flower-like animals gently sway in the currents, waiting for their next meal to float by.