#tide pool week

[montereybayaquarium]

The opalescent nudibranch chomps on hydroids and anemones, transferring some of its prey’s stinging capsules to its cerata, where they become part of the sea slug’s own defense system. When two opalescents meet, they're likely to lunge into a biting battle. The winner usually eats the loser!

[montereybayaquarium]

If you're a porcelain crab in a Monterey tide pool, it's feast or famine every six hours or so, as the tide delivers suspended food for eventual takeout.

[montereybayaquarium]

Tidepooling Mantras:

⭐️ Step carefully and look closely, you're a giant in a bustling sea-ty. ⭐️ Turn your back on your worries but never on the ocean. ⭐️ Leave only footsteps, take only memories.

Check out more tips, as well as info on where and when to go tidepooling in the bay from our friends at NOAA's Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. 

[montereybayaquarium]

Anemones need not fear the waves coming and going—whatever the tide, they’ve got it covered! Beneath the waves they’re open for business. When exposed they become introspective, tucking themselves in and using bits of shells and sand as a sun-blocking blanket to keep the moisture in until the ocean’s return!

[montereybayaquarium]

Of course the intertidal is otterly pawesome! Some sea otters are avid tidepoolers, using the land between the tides to forage for snacks or to grab a quick nap out of the chilly ocean.

[montereybayaquarium]

Lucky is the tidepooler who stumbles upon a red octopus! But make sure to keep your paws off: Red octopuses have sharp beaks and a potent venom that could ruin your tidepooling day! 🤕🐙 (Also, how do you feel about being poked at work? Right, so don’t!)

[montereybayaquarium]

Low tides are coming to Monterey Bay this week, which makes it a perfect time to explore these tiny, vibrant worlds and the animals that call them home. Get ready for Tide Pool Week!