rockpools

Rockpools are small, natural pools of seawater that form in depressions on rocky shorelines. They are created when the tide goes out, leaving behind trapped pockets of water amongst the rocks and boulders. These miniature marine ecosystems are incredibly diverse and host a variety of life adapted to fluctuating conditions.

The inhabitants of rockpools can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, size, and depth of the pool, as well as the degree of wave exposure. Common creatures found include small fish, crustaceans like crabs and shrimps, mollusks such as limpets and mussels, and various types of algae and seaweed. Some rockpools may also contain starfish, sea anemones, and small jellyfish.

These environments are characterized by their exposure to both submersion at high tide and isolation at low tide. This means inhabitants must be able to withstand changes in temperature, salinity, and oxygen levels. Many species have developed specific adaptations to survive these challenges, such as the ability to breathe air for short periods or to cling tightly to surfaces to avoid being washed away. Rockpools are important for both biodiversity and for providing educational opportunities for people to observe marine life up close.