When exploring the tidepool environment visitors will begin to notice certain patters. These patterns include the distribution of animals in certain locations, similarities between adaptations of the animals and even the absence of marine life in certain locations. After spending some time observing this amazing environment, these patterns become more apparent. At first glance, these patterns may appear random. These patterns and why these patterns form are anything but random and most have very interesting explanations and reasons why they form.
Types of Tide pools and features
- Bench
- Boulder/Rock Field
- Rocky Outcrop
Life in a Tidepool
Patterns in Tide pool Ecology
- Open patch in mussel/barnacle field
- Why do Sand Castle worms only live in certain areas?
- Why are only smaller animals life in the upper tidal zones and large animals live lower?
- Why are there more animals living in the cracks than open spaces?
- Do limpets actually have farms?
- Why do Chitons and Urchins seem to always live in holes?
- Why do mussels and barnacles prefer exposed areas?
- Why Do mussels only live in a narrow vertical band?
- Shell covered anemones
- Colonization and settlement – who wins
- Mussel/barnacle in same niche
- Small fish in pools