Oceanographic and Climatic Factors
What does the Rocky Intertidal Zone look like, you might ask ponderously. Take a look at the photo below to find out! Photo taken by Martin Gabriel. What exactly is the Rocky Intertidal Zone? The rocky intertidal zone provides linkage between terrestrial systems and marine systems. They are high stress, high impact areas. " Conditions including wave action, changes in salinity, thermal stress, alternating periods of exposure and submersion, and exposure to winter ice have necessitated that organisms develop strategies to survive in this stressful environment". For example, some animals like mussels have hard shells to protect themselves, and some algae can hide under rocks to protect from predation. Rocky intertidal zones do many things for the environment and planet, such as stabilizing shorelines, " protecting upland areas against the eroding action of waves and the impacts of storm surges and sea level rise; creating dramatic vistas; offering easily access...