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Mudflats |
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The mudflat habitat is an enclosed coastal area with fresh and saltwater saturated sediments. Mudflats appear barren but conceal a rich variety of life. Many animals depend on this fragile and threatened habitat. Commercially important fish, such as the California halibut, use this habitat as a nursery ground which provides protection and a rich source of food.
The area surrounding the upper part of the mud is called the saltmarsh and teems with plants. Marsh plants provide shelter and living space for other organisms. The breakdown and decay of these plants produce organic debris which is a rich food source for a variety of invertebrates, like fiddler crabs and amphipods. These animals are an attractive food source for the mudflat’s large bird population, including the willet and snowy egret. Over 100 species of birds reside in or visit southern California mudflats.
The highest zone is dominated by salt grass which can tolerate only the occasional tidal flooding that occurs at this level. The middle zone is characterized by pickleweed which is more tolerant of tidal flooding. The lowest zone teems with eel grass which is one of the few marsh plants that can grow completely underwater.
Visit the mudflat room at the aquarium to learn more about marsh plants and the many animals that depend on this important habitat.
Southern California Species
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Black-crowned Night Heron
Nycticorax nycticorax
Black-crowned night herons feed at night in the same areas that other heron species feed in the day. |
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California Halibut
Paralichthys californicus
The California halibut is a flatfish with both eyes on one side of its head! |
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Eel Grass
Zostera marina
Eel grass is a true plant (not a seaweed) and is one of the few flowering plants that grow in the ocean. |
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Fiddler Crab
Uca crenulata
Males have a large claw that they wave back and forth like a fiddler. |
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Giant Kelpfish
Heterostichus rostratus
The giant kelpfish can quickly change color during courtship or territorial displays. |
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Sea Pansy
Renilla koellikeri
A sea pansy is not a flower, but is an animal that is related to sea jellies. |
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Striped Shore Crab
Pachygrapsus crassipes
The striped shore crab spends at least half its time on land, but submerges at times to wet its gills. |
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Western Gull
Larus occidentalis
The Western gull typically lives about 15 years, but can live to at least 25 years. |
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