Farallon

Farallon is a term used primarily in geography and geology, referring to a group of coastal and oceanic features off California as well as to an ancient tectonic plate. The name derives from the Spanish farallón, meaning a sea cliff or reef.

Farallon Islands: The Farallon Islands are a small archipelago in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of northern California, about 28 miles west of the Golden Gate. The two main islands are North Farallon Island and Southeast Farallon Island, with several smaller rocks forming the remainder of the group. The islands are largely uninhabited and host long-running scientific research programs. They are a crucial breeding site for seabirds and serve as a habitat for various marine mammals. The surrounding waters are part of the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, established to protect marine life and habitats. Access to the islands is restricted to minimize disturbance to wildlife, with permits typically required for researchers and authorized personnel.

Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary: The sanctuary encompasses the waters around the Farallon Islands and neighboring coastline, protecting diverse marine ecosystems and migratory species. It serves as a focus for conservation, wildlife monitoring, and scientific study, and is managed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in coordination with partners.

Farallon Plate: In plate tectonics, the Farallon Plate was a major oceanic tectonic plate that existed beneath the Pacific Ocean from the Jurassic to the Cenozoic era. It was largely subducted beneath the North American Plate, with remnants persisting as the Juan de Fuca Plate, the Cocos Plate, and smaller fragments. Subduction of the Farallon Plate contributed to tectonic and volcanic activity along western North America.

Etymology: The term derives from the Spanish farallón, reflecting the coastal rock formations that inspired early explorers.