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Ecosystems

Explore animals’ ocean homes and learn about ocean habitats from the rocky shore to the deep sea.

Ecosystem

Beaches & dunes

When the people are gone, this habitat seems deserted. Look closely, and you’ll find it's filled with life.

Ecosystem

Coral reefs

Built by tiny sea animals, coral reefs are underwater structures bustling with marine life. 

Ecosystem

Coastal wetlands

These low-lying, wet stretches of land are home to an abundant mix of plants, fish, and wildlife.

Ecosystem

Deep sea

The largest ecosystem on Earth lies between the ocean's upper layers and the dark floor of the deep sea.

Ecosystem

Reefs & pilings

Man-made coastal structures like wharfs, piers, and jetties create artificial reefs filled with marine life.

Ecosystem

Rocky shore

Ruled by tides and packed with hardy sea life, the rocky shore is one of the ocean’s toughest habitats.

Ecosystem

Sandy seafloor

Waves constantly churn and shift the sandy seafloor, creating tough conditions for the plants and animals.

Ecosystem

Kelp forest

Giant kelp plants that provide food and shelter for a diverse community of plants and animals.

Ecosystem

Open ocean

The open ocean is a vast, hypnotic world with seemingly no end.

Ecosystem

Coastal waters

These low-lying stretches of land, saturated with water, are home to a mix of plants, fish, and wildlife.