Want to learn about what species call kelp forests home? Explore this range of resources about sea otters, fish, seals, and more to learn about their role in these ecosystems and how they utilize kelp forests.
Sea otters aren't just adorable animals, but they are also an important keystone species, meaning their presence is central to the health of their environment. Researchers have recently been investigating how sea otter reintroduction has affected the ecosystem in Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary -- check out our video to learn more!
Giant sea bass are at the top of the food web in the Kelp Forest Ecosystems in places like Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary.
In the late 1800s, northern elephant seals were thought to be extinct after decades of extensive commercial hunting. But in the last century, these seals have made an amazing recovery! Today, you can see northern elephant seals throughout Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Have you ever encountered one of these curious creatures on a trip to NOAA's Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary? Meet the harbor seal in this week's Earth Is Blue video!
Star light, star bright, first star I see tonight – make a wish and get to know the sea stars of Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary!
Meet the California sea cucumber, one of the many invertebrates that calls NOAA's Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary home!
Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary is known for big charismatic animals like orcas and sea otters. But how much do you know about the smaller animals, like sea stars, that dwell here?
Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including sea lions. Learn about these inquisitive creatures in our video!
Invasive species in the marine and estuarine environments of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary can alter species composition and native biodiversity, impact ecosystem structure and function, and disrupt commercial and recreational activities.
Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary offers wonderful diving, fishing, kayaking, and boating opportunities to explore the islands' kelp forest and rocky reefs, sea caves and enjoy breathtaking views of scenic coastlines. Within the sanctuary, there are twenty-seven different species of whales and dolphins, five species of pinnipeds, and sixty species of seabirds.
The upwelling of a unique and powerful current within Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary is responsible for creating one of the most spectacular and biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet. It is home to one of the largest feeding grounds for white sharks, 36 species of marine mammals, over 390 species of fish, and over 330 species of invertebrates – deep sea corals, sponges, shrimp, crab and other mollusks and crustaceans and much more.
Get the rundown on everything you need to know about sea otters through this video. Sea otters are one of the many species that call the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary home.
