Underwater
in the Sanctuary
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Kelp forest rock-bottom and shallow sand-bottom communities
make up the predominant nearshore habitats. Luxuriant
forest-like growth of giant kelp occurs in shallow water
throughout the sanctuary. The most dense and extensive
formations occur along protected island shores and provide
rich habitat for a variety of invertebrate fauna. These
species include sponge, kelp crab, spiny lobster, octopus
and squid, sea stars and sea urchins. Common fish of the
kelp forest include garibaldi, opal eye, kelp bass, California
sheepshead, sea perch and rockfish. Common animal species
in sand habitat include sea pansies, polychaetes, sand
dollars, several species of rays, sand dabs and turbot.
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