Rockpool Life
Barnacles
Semibalanus balanoides
Ryan Hodnett, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Barnacles
Semibalanus balanoides
What it eats
Plankton, which they catch by waving their feathery legs in the water. Picture a tiny underwater rave.
How it breeds or multiplies
Barnacles are hermaphrodites, but they still need a neighbor to mate. They use a very long appendage to transfer sperm—practical but not subtle.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Their glue is so strong that it can stick to almost anything, including whales and boats. Scientists are still trying to replicate it for human use!
Its habitats
Rocks, pier pilings, and shells. Basically, anything that doesn’t move is fair game for a barnacle’s forever home
Beadlet Anemone
Actinia equina
Diego Delso - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Beadlet Anemone
Actinia equina
What it eats
Small crustaceans, molluscs, and occasionally small fish.
How it breeds or multiplies
Internal brooding of larvae, which are then released into the water.
Interesting and gruesome fact
When disturbed, it retracts its tentacles and becomes a bright red blob—nature's stress ball!
Its habitats
Rocky shores, often in exposed areas where waves crash.
Bladder Wrack
Fucus vesiculosus
User Stemonitis on en.wikipedia - CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Bladder Wrack
Fucus vesiculosus
What it eats
Photosynthesizes like a plant, using sunlight to produce energy.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm from special reproductive bodies during spring tides.
Interesting and gruesome fact
The air bladders help it float upright when submerged—nature's buoyancy aid!
Its habitats
Rocky shores in the middle to lower intertidal zone.
Blue-rayed Limpet
Helcion pellucidum
Andy.Cowley - CC BY-SA 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Blue-rayed Limpet
Helcion pellucidum
What it eats
Feeds on kelp and other brown seaweeds.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water during winter.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Has beautiful blue stripes that shine like neon lights—nature's disco shell!
Its habitats
Found on kelp stems and other large seaweeds.
Breadcrumb Sponge
Halichondria panicea
Unknown, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Breadcrumb Sponge
Halichondria panicea
What it eats
Filters tiny plankton and organic particles from the water. It’s like a natural water purifier.
How it breeds or multiplies
Can reproduce sexually by releasing sperm and eggs into the water or asexually by budding. Flexibility is its secret to success.
Interesting and gruesome fact
When disturbed, it releases a noxious odor. Imagine bread that smells terrible—hence its name!
Its habitats
Attached to rocks and hard surfaces in tidal pools and shallow waters.
Brittlestar
Ophiothrix fragilis
Parent Géry - Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Brittlestar
Ophiothrix fragilis
What it eats
Organic particles and plankton, gathered using its long, flexible arms.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water, resulting in free-swimming larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
If attacked, it can drop an arm to escape and regrow it later. A life-saving party trick!
Its habitats
Shallow sandy seabeds and rocky tide pools.
Butterfish
Pholis gunnellus
Jack Sewell - CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Butterfish
Pholis gunnellus
What it eats
Small crustaceans, molluscs, and worms.
How it breeds or multiplies
Parents coil around the eggs to protect them until they hatch.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Gets its name from being incredibly slippery—good luck trying to catch one!
Its habitats
Under rocks and seaweed in the lower shore.
Carrageen
Chondrus crispus
Voctir - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Carrageen
Chondrus crispus
What it eats
Photosynthesizes like other seaweeds, creating energy from sunlight.
How it breeds or multiplies
Alternates between male and female phases during its life cycle.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Used in food production as a thickening agent—you might have eaten it without knowing!
Its habitats
Rocky shores in the lower intertidal zone.
Celtic Sea Slug
Onchidella Celtica
Auguste Le Roux - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Celtic Sea Slug
Onchidella Celtica
What it eats
Algae and biofilm. It’s a slow-moving grazer, vacuuming up microscopic goodies from the rocks.
How it breeds or multiplies
Hermaphroditic, meaning every individual has both male and female reproductive organs. They lay small clusters of eggs in safe, sheltered spots on rocks.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Unlike other sea slugs, the Celtic Sea Slug doesn’t have flamboyant colors. Instead, it’s a stealthy greyish-brown that blends perfectly with the rocks. It’s Cornwall’s very own marine ninja.
Its habitats
Exclusively found on rocky shores in Cornwall and a few nearby locations. A truly Celtic specialist!
Common Blenny
Lipophrys pholis
Gilles San Martin - CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Common Blenny
Lipophrys pholis
What it eats
Small crustaceans, molluscs, and algae. They dart out from their hiding spots to grab unsuspecting prey.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males guard eggs in rocky crevices until they hatch. Talk about dedicated dads!
Interesting and gruesome fact
They can breathe air and survive out of water for hours! They're like the amphibians of the rockpool world.
Its habitats
Rocky shores and tide pools, often hiding in crevices or under seaweed.
Common Goby
Pomatoschistus microps
Donald Davesne - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Common Goby
Pomatoschistus microps
What it eats
Small invertebrates and crustaceans
How it breeds or multiplies
Males build and guard nests under shells or stones.
Interesting and gruesome fact
These tiny fish are masters of camouflage, changing color to match their surroundings.
Its habitats
Sandy or muddy areas in shallow water.
Common Limpet
Patella vulgata
Didier Descouens - CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Common Limpet
Patella vulgata
What it eats
Grazes on algae and seaweed using its rough tongue called a radula.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the sea during stormy weather.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Returns to the same spot on the rock after feeding—it has a home base! Nature's homing device.
Its habitats
Rocky shores, firmly attached to rocks in the intertidal zone.
Common Periwinkle
Littorina littorea
H. Zell - CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Common Periwinkle
Littorina littorea
What it eats
Grazes on algae and seaweed using its file-like tongue.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs in capsules that develop into swimming larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Can seal its shell with a trap door called an operculum—it's like having a built-in front door!
Its habitats
Rocky shores and muddy estuaries, often in large groups.
Common Prawn
Palaemon serratus
Etrusko25 - Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Common Prawn
Palaemon serratus
What it eats
Omnivorous diet, including algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. It's the garbage disposal of the rockpool, keeping things clean.
How it breeds or multiplies
Females carry fertilized eggs under their abdomen until they hatch into free-swimming larvae. A mobile nursery in action!
Interesting and gruesome fact
Known for their translucent bodies with distinctive red and yellow markings, common prawns can leap backwards quickly by flicking their tails—a nifty escape tactic.
Its habitats
Rockpools, estuaries, and coastal waters with plenty of hiding spots among seaweed and rocks. They are nocturnal and more active at night.
Common Starfish
Asterias rubens
Herbythyme - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Common Starfish
Asterias rubens
What it eats
Shellfish! Starfish pry open mussels or clams, then do the unthinkable—they eject their stomachs into the shell to digest the prey externally. Gruesome and effective.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males and females release eggs and sperm into the water. Baby starfish start as tiny plankton before growing into their familiar shape.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Lose an arm? No worries—starfish can regrow lost limbs. In fact, an arm can sometimes grow into an entirely new starfish. Nature's ultimate DIY.
Its habitats
Rocky shores and sandy seabeds, wherever mussels and clams are plentiful. They're the slow-moving hunters of the sea.
Corkscrew Wrack
Fucus spiralis
AlguesConcarneau4.JPG: rosier derivative work: Thiotrix, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Corkscrew Wrack
Fucus spiralis
What it eats
Doesn’t eat—photosynthesizes using sunlight. Nature’s green powerhouse.
How it breeds or multiplies
Produces spores in little reproductive nodules at the ends of its fronds. Efficient and low-key.
Interesting and gruesome fact
It's spiral shape isn’t just for show; it helps it survive the strong tidal currents by reducing drag.
Its habitats
Found in the upper intertidal zone, clinging to rocks and thriving in sunlit areas.
Cushion Starfish
Asterina gibbosa
Peter Southwood, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Cushion Starfish
Asterina gibbosa
What it eats
Algae, detritus, and microscopic organisms. It's the cleanup crew of the rockpool.
How it breeds or multiplies
Can reproduce sexually or asexually by splitting in half. Imagine cloning yourself every time you're in a tight spot!
Interesting and gruesome fact
It's tiny compared to other starfish, but it's a master of regeneration. Lose a limb? No problem—it grows back in no time.
Its habitats
Rocky intertidal zones and shallow waters with plenty of algae to munch on.
Dahlia Anemone
Urticina felina
Derek Keats - CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dahlia Anemone
Urticina felina
What it eats
Fish, crustaceans, and other marine invertebrates.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water for external fertilization.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Named for its flower-like appearance, it's one of the largest anemones in British waters.
Its habitats
Lower shore and shallow sublittoral zones, attached to rocks.
Dead Mens Fingers
Alcyonium digitatum
New York-air - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dead Mens Fingers
Alcyonium digitatum
What it eats
Filters plankton and organic particles from the water using its polyps.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water during winter.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Despite its creepy name, it's actually a beautiful soft coral that looks like pale fingers reaching up from the seabed!
Its habitats
Lower shore and shallow sublittoral, attached to rocks.
Devonshire Cup Coral
Caryophyllia smithii
Parent Géry - Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Devonshire Cup Coral
Caryophyllia smithii
What it eats
Catches plankton and small organisms with its stinging tentacles.
How it breeds or multiplies
Can reproduce both sexually and by dividing itself.
Interesting and gruesome fact
One of the few hard corals found in British waters—a true northern coral pioneer!
Its habitats
Lower shore and sublittoral zones, attached to rocks in dark places.
Dog Whelk
Nucella lapillus
Martin Talbot, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dog Whelk
Nucella lapillus
What it eats
Predator of barnacles and mussels, drilling through their shells.
How it breeds or multiplies
Lays capsules of eggs on rocks, looking like tiny corn kernels.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Can drill through the shells of its prey using acid and its radula—nature's power tool!
Its habitats
Rocky shores, often found among its prey of barnacles and mussels.
Dulse
Palmaria palmata
Voctir, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Dulse
Palmaria palmata
What it eats
Photosynthesizes to create energy from sunlight and absorbs nutrients from seawater.
How it breeds or multiplies
Alternates between two different life stages in its reproductive cycle.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Historically eaten as a snack and known as the 'bacon of the sea' due to its taste when fried!
Its habitats
Rocky shores in the lower intertidal zone, often growing on other seaweeds.
Edible Crab
Cancer pagurus
Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Edible Crab
Cancer pagurus
What it eats
Mollusks, crustaceans, and carrion. This crab uses its powerful claws to crush shells and enjoy a hearty seafood meal.
How it breeds or multiplies
Mating occurs after the female molts her shell. She then carries thousands of eggs under her abdomen until they hatch into planktonic larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Also known as the 'brown crab,' it's a favorite in seafood cuisine. But beware—those pincers can deliver a nasty nip if provoked!
Its habitats
Rocky substrates and sandy bottoms, from shallow waters to depths of up to 100 meters. Often found hiding in crevices or under rocks during the day.
Elegant Anemone
Sagartia elegans
gordon.milligan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Elegant Anemone
Sagartia elegans
What it eats
Plankton, small shrimp, and anything its stinging tentacles can grab.
How it breeds or multiplies
Reproduces both sexually and asexually, often cloning itself.
Interesting and gruesome fact
It's tentacles are so sticky they’ll snag unsuspecting prey in a split second. An efficient predator in a tiny package.
Its habitats
Lower intertidal zones and shaded rockpools.
European Lobster
Homarus gammarus
Arnstein Rønning, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
European Lobster
Homarus gammarus
What it eats
Mollusks, crabs, and small fish. It's the top-tier predator of the rocky seabed.
How it breeds or multiplies
Mates after the female molts. She carries thousands of eggs under her tail for up to 12 months.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Lobsters can live up to 50 years and never stop growing, molting throughout their lives.
Its habitats
Rocky crevices and sandy seabeds in deeper waters.
Five-bearded Rockling
Ciliata mustela
jujurenoult, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Five-bearded Rockling
Ciliata mustela
What it eats
Small crustaceans and worms. Uses its barbels (whisker-like feelers) to find food in the dark.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spawns in winter and spring, releasing eggs into the water.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Those five barbels aren't just for show—they're packed with sensory organs to help find food!
Its habitats
Sandy or muddy areas near rocks, often hiding under seaweed.
Flounder
Platichthys flesus
Tiit Hunt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Flounder
Platichthys flesus
What it eats
Ambush predator feeding on small fish, crustaceans, and worms.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spawns in deep water during winter and early spring.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Can change its color to match its surroundings in just a few minutes—the ultimate master of disguise!
Its habitats
Estuaries and sandy shores, often buried in sediment.
Green Sea Urchin
Psammechinus miliaris
Donald Davesne, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Green Sea Urchin
Psammechinus miliaris
What it eats
Algae, detritus, and pretty much anything it can scrape off rocks. It's the ultimate rockpool recycler.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males and females release their eggs and sperm into the water, hoping for a romantic swirl. Baby urchins drift around as larvae before settling down.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Sea urchins have five tiny teeth that can scrape algae—and these teeth never stop growing! They're basically living underwater cheese graters.
Its habitats
Found clinging to rocks and hiding in crevices. They love rocky areas with lots of algae to munch on.
Green Shore Crab
Carcinus aestuarii
George Chernilevsky, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Green Shore Crab
Carcinus aestuarii
What it eats
Algae, mollusks, worms, and detritus. It's the scavenger of the shore.
How it breeds or multiplies
Females carry eggs (called a "berry") under their abdomen until they hatch into free-swimming larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
This crab can change its shell color slightly to match its environment, making it a master of disguise.
Its habitats
Rocky intertidal zones and sandy shores.
Harbour Crab
Liocarcinus depurator
Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Harbour Crab
Liocarcinus depurator
What it eats
Small fish, crustaceans, and algae. It's an opportunistic eater with a big appetite.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males and females mate after the female molts her shell. The eggs are then carried under the female's abdomen.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its swimming legs make it one of the fastest crabs in shallow water.
Its habitats
Sandy seabeds and shallow coastal waters.
Hermit Crab
Pagurus bernhardus
NOAA - Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Hermit Crab
Pagurus bernhardus
What it eats
Dead organic matter, algae, and tiny invertebrates. It’s the janitor of the rockpool, cleaning up leftovers wherever it goes.
How it breeds or multiplies
Mating involves the male carefully pulling the female out of her shell (romantic, right?) before fertilizing her eggs. The female then carries the eggs on her abdomen until they hatch into free-swimming larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Hermit crabs don’t grow their own shells—they “borrow” empty ones from snails. When a hermit crab outgrows its shell, it hunts for a new one, sometimes engaging in shell swaps with other crabs. It’s a real-life game of musical chairs!
Its habitats
Rockpools, sandy shores, and anywhere there are empty snail shells to commandeer. They are opportunistic and can adapt to a wide range of intertidal environments.
Honeycomb Worm
Sabellaria alveolata
Júlio Reis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Honeycomb Worm
Sabellaria alveolata
What it eats
Filters plankton from the water using its tentacle crown.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water during summer.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Builds tubes from sand grains that join together to form honeycomb-like reefs—nature's architect!
Its habitats
Forms colonies on rocky shores, creating reef-like structures.
Lesser Weever
Echiichthys vipera
Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lesser Weever
Echiichthys vipera
What it eats
Small fish and crustaceans. This little predator lies buried in the sand, waiting to ambush unsuspecting prey.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spawning occurs in the summer months. Females release eggs into the open water, which hatch into larvae and eventually settle on the seabed.
Interesting and gruesome fact
The lesser weever is venomous, with spines on its dorsal fin and gills that can deliver a painful sting. It’s the punk rocker of the rockpool, complete with dangerous spikes!
Its habitats
Sandy shores and shallow waters, often buried just beneath the sand with only its eyes and mouth visible. Watch your step when paddling!
Long-spined Sea Scorpion
Taurulus bubalis
Donald Davesne, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Long-spined Sea Scorpion
Taurulus bubalis
What it eats
Small fish and crustaceans. A patient ambush predator.
How it breeds or multiplies
Lays eggs in clusters which are guarded by the male.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Despite its fearsome name, it's more of a grumpy rockpool resident than a real threat.
Its habitats
Rocky pools and seaweed beds, masters of camouflage.
Lumpsucker
Cyclopterus lumpus
Tiit Hunt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Lumpsucker
Cyclopterus lumpus
What it eats
Jellyfish, small crustaceans, and plankton. It’s not picky—it just loves things that float.
How it breeds or multiplies
Females lay eggs in clusters, and males fiercely guard them, fanning water over the eggs to keep them oxygenated. These dads take parenting seriously.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its pelvic fins are modified into a suction cup, allowing it to stick to rocks and avoid getting swept away. A fish with super glue powers!
Its habitats
Cold, rocky shorelines and deeper waters, but occasionally ventures into rockpools.
Masked Crab
Corystes cassivelaunus
Bernard Picton, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Masked Crab
Corystes cassivelaunus
What it eats
Buried crustaceans, worms, and detritus. It's a stealthy hunter that digs for its dinner.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males seek out females during the breeding season, and the eggs are carried under the female's abdomen until they hatch.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its long, curved antennae help it breathe while buried in the sand, making it a master of disguise and stealth.
Its habitats
Sandy shores and shallow waters, often buried just below the surface.
Montagu’s Blenny
Coryphoblennius Galerita
riblje-oko.hr - GFDL, via Wikimedia Commons, GFDL, via Wikimedia Commons
Montagu’s Blenny
Coryphoblennius Galerita
What it eats
Algae, barnacles, and small invertebrates. It’s an opportunistic diner, scraping away at whatever it can find on the rocks.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males prepare nesting sites in rock crevices, enticing females to lay their eggs. The male guards the eggs like a devoted sentinel until they hatch.
Interesting and gruesome fact
It’s named after Captain George Montagu, an 18th-century British naturalist who first described this curious fish. Montagu was known for his love of marine life—and possibly for being as feisty as the blenny that bears his name. This blenny also has a small, fleshy crest or “mohawk” on its head, which gives it a punk rock look and helps distinguish it from its relatives.
Its habitats
Prefers rocky shores and algae-rich areas, where it can easily find food and safe hiding spots. You’ll often spot it in the splash zone, even at low tide.
Painted Top Shell
Calliostoma zizyphinum
H. Zell, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Painted Top Shell
Calliostoma zizyphinum
What it eats
Algae scraped off rocks with its radula—a tongue-like structure covered in tiny teeth.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs into the water, which develop into planktonic larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its brightly colored, cone-shaped shell makes it one of the most eye-catching mollusks in the rockpool.
Its habitats
Rocky shores, clinging to seaweed and stones.
Plaice
Pleuronectes platessa
Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Plaice
Pleuronectes platessa
What it eats
Bottom-dwelling predator feeding on shellfish, worms, and crustaceans.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spawns in offshore waters during winter and spring.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Born swimming upright like normal fish, but one eye gradually moves to join the other on top—nature's transformer!
Its habitats
Sandy or muddy seabeds, often partially buried.
Purple Laver
Porphyra umbilicalis
Gabriele Kothe-Heinrich, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Purple Laver
Porphyra umbilicalis
What it eats
Photosynthesizes using sunlight, making it a self-sustaining plant powerhouse.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases spores into the water, which grow into new plants. Nature’s seed spreader.
Interesting and gruesome fact
This seaweed is used to make laverbread, a traditional Welsh dish. Fancy some seaweed toast, anyone?
Its habitats
Shallow rockpools and coastal areas exposed to sunlight.
Purple Sea Urchin
Paracentrotus lividus
Frédéric Ducarme, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Purple Sea Urchin
Paracentrotus lividus
What it eats
Algae, detritus, and seagrass. It grazes like an underwater lawnmower.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water for external fertilization.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its spines are sharp enough to fend off predators, and it has a specialized mouth called Aristotle's lantern for munching through rock-hard algae.
Its habitats
Rocky pools and subtidal zones with plenty of algae.
Rainbow Worm
Eulalia viridis
A. C. Tatarinov, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rainbow Worm
Eulalia viridis
What it eats
Predator feeding on other worms and small invertebrates.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs that develop into swimming larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its body shimmers with iridescent colors—hence the name 'rainbow' worm!
Its habitats
Under rocks and in crevices on the lower shore.
Sand Mason Worm
Lanice conchilega
Seascapeza, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sand Mason Worm
Lanice conchilega
What it eats
Filters small particles from the water using its tentacles.
How it breeds or multiplies
Reproduces sexually, releasing gametes into the water.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Builds tubes decorated with shell fragments—it's the interior designer of the sandy seabed!
Its habitats
Sandy or muddy shores, often in dense colonies.
Sand Shrimp
Crangon crangon
Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sand Shrimp
Crangon crangon
What it eats
Small invertebrates and organic matter. It's not fussy and loves a good sand buffet.
How it breeds or multiplies
Females carry their eggs under their abdomen until they hatch into tiny, transparent larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Sand shrimp are masters of camouflage, blending perfectly with sandy seabeds. You'll need eagle eyes to spot them!
Its habitats
Sandy and muddy seabeds, often buried during the day to avoid predators.
Sand Sole
Solea solea
Hans Hillewaert, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sand Sole
Solea solea
What it eats
Crustaceans, worms, and small fish. It hunts in the sand like a stealthy ninja.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spawns in deeper waters, with larvae floating in the plankton until they settle as juveniles.
Interesting and gruesome fact
It's flat body allows it to bury itself completely in the sand, leaving only its eyes exposed.
Its habitats
Sandy seabeds and shallow waters.
Sea Fan Coral
Eunicella verrucosa
Santos Jubete Guillén, GPL, via Wikimedia Commons
Sea Fan Coral
Eunicella verrucosa
What it eats
Plankton and tiny organic particles filtered from the water.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water to form free-swimming larvae.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its fan-like structure is so delicate that even a touch can damage it, making it a protected species.
Its habitats
Deeper subtidal areas with strong currents.
Sea Girdle
Girdle of Neptune
no-image-available.png, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sea Girdle
Girdle of Neptune
What it eats
Filters organic particles from the water, quietly cleaning the ocean.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases spores into the water, which settle and grow into new colonies.
Interesting and gruesome fact
It's name comes from its delicate, ribbon-like structure that wraps around rocks.
Its habitats
Clinging to rocks in the lower intertidal zone.
Sea Hare
Aplysia punctata
Genny Anderson - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sea Hare
Aplysia punctata
What it eats
Seaweed, particularly red and green algae. It grazes like a tiny underwater cow, leaving neat little trails as it munches.
How it breeds or multiplies
Sea Hares are hermaphrodites and can mate with any other individual. They lay long, spaghetti-like egg ribbons on seaweed or rocks, ensuring the next generation gets a head start.
Interesting and gruesome fact
When threatened, they release a cloud of purple ink to confuse predators. The ink is harmless to humans but can make them disappear in an instant. An escape artist with style!
Its habitats
Shallow rocky shores with abundant seaweed. They love calm, sheltered rockpools where they can graze without too much disturbance.
Sea Lemon
Archidoris pseudoargus
Vulpecula23, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Sea Lemon
Archidoris pseudoargus
What it eats
Sponges are its favorite food. A picky eater with expensive taste!
How it breeds or multiplies
Lays spiral ribbons of eggs that look like delicate lace.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Despite its name, it's not citrus-flavored! The name comes from its lumpy, yellow appearance.
Its habitats
Rocky shores and shallow waters, often found near its favorite food—sponges.
Sea Lettuce
Ulva lactuca
Kristian Peters -- Fabelfroh 08:32, 12 December 2006 (UTC), CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sea Lettuce
Ulva lactuca
What it eats
Nothing! Like all seaweeds, it photosynthesizes, soaking up sunlight to make its food. The original solar panel.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases tiny spores into the water, which grow into new sea lettuce plants. Simple yet effective.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Sea lettuce is edible for humans and full of nutrients. But if it decays in large quantities, it can release gases that smell like rotten eggs. Dinner or disaster? You decide.
Its habitats
Shallow waters and rockpools with lots of sunlight. Look for its bright green, leaf-like fronds.
Sea Potato
Echinocardium cordatum
Cwmhiraeth, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Sea Potato
Echinocardium cordatum
What it eats
Organic material buried in the sand. It's like a vacuum cleaner with spines.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males and females release eggs and sperm into the water, and the fertilized eggs settle into the sand.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its heart-shaped shell is covered in tiny, furry spines. Cute, but also super creepy up close!
Its habitats
Sandy seabeds and shallow waters, they are often found just under the surface of the sand.
Serrated Wrack
Fucus serratus
User:Stemonitis, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Serrated Wrack
Fucus serratus
What it eats
Photosynthesizes to produce its own food from sunlight.
How it breeds or multiplies
Reproduces by releasing gametes from specialized reproductive structures.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Has distinctive saw-toothed edges to its fronds—nature's serrated knife!
Its habitats
Lower shore, forming dense bands on rocky coastlines.
Shore Clingfish
Lepadogaster lepadogaster
polandeze, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Shore Clingfish
Lepadogaster lepadogaster
What it eats
Tiny crustaceans and algae. It forages among rocks like a tiny treasure hunter.
How it breeds or multiplies
Females lay adhesive eggs under rocks, and males guard them until they hatch. Family values are strong with these little fish.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its suction disc is so strong it can hold on even in strong tidal currents. It’s the rockpool’s version of a superhero’s grappling hook.
Its habitats
Rocky pools and intertidal zones, often tucked under rocks or clinging to surfaces.
Snakelocks Anemone
Anemonia viridis
Diego Delso , CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Snakelocks Anemone
Anemonia viridis
What it eats
Small fish and crustaceans that get caught in its stinging tentacles.
How it breeds or multiplies
Can reproduce by splitting in half or releasing eggs and sperm into the water.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its tentacles contain stinging cells that paralyze prey, but they don't harm humans.
Its habitats
Rocky pools exposed to sunlight, often in shallow water.
Spider Crab
Maja brachydactyla
Júlio Reis, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Spider Crab
Maja brachydactyla
What it eats
Spider crabs are scavengers, munching on dead stuff, algae, and anything that doesn't run away fast enough. Think of them as the rockpool's cleanup crew.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spider crabs mate belly-to-belly (romantic, right?). Females carry thousands of eggs under their tails like tiny backpacks until they hatch.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Spider crabs are decorators—they stick seaweed, sponges, and shells onto their shells to blend in. But under all that bling, they're surprisingly squishy!
Its habitats
Shallow sandy areas or rocky pools. They're often found loitering under rocks or scuttling along like awkward underwater models.
Spiny Starfish
Marthasterias glacialis
heartypanther, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Spiny Starfish
Marthasterias glacialis
What it eats
mussels clams, and other shellfish. It pries them open with its arms and stomach-slurps their insides. Gruesome but effective.
How it breeds or multiplies
Releases eggs and sperm into the water. The larvae drift with the currents before settling down and growing their iconic spiny shape.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its spines are sharp enough to deter most predators, and it can regrow lost arms if attacked. It's basically the Wolverine of the rockpool.
Its habitats
Rocky seabeds and deeper tide pools, especially where shellfish are abundant. Look for them hanging out in mussel beds.
Strawberry Anemone
Actinia fragacea
Nicolás Tamargo, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Strawberry Anemone
Actinia fragacea
What it eats
Small crustaceans and fish that stumble into its tentacles.
How it breeds or multiplies
Broods its young internally before releasing them.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Looks like a strawberry when closed, hence its name. Nature's confusing snack!
Its habitats
Rocky shores in the lower intertidal zone.
Three-bearded Rockling
Gaidropsarus vulgaris
Gervais et Boulart, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Three-bearded Rockling
Gaidropsarus vulgaris
What it eats
Small crustaceans, worms, and fish eggs. It’s like the seafood buffet expert of the rockpool.
How it breeds or multiplies
Spawning occurs in spring and summer, with eggs released into the open water. The larvae drift with the currents until they’re big enough to settle down.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Its three chin barbels (whisker-like organs) act like feelers to help it find food in the dark. Think of it as a night-vision beard.
Its habitats
Rocky crevices and sandy seabeds, often hiding during the day and feeding at night.
Tompot Blenny
Parablennius Gattorugine
Diego Delso - CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Tompot Blenny
Parablennius Gattorugine
What it eats
Small crustaceans, worms, and mollusks. It’s like a snack-loving rockpool gremlin, constantly foraging among the algae and stones.
How it breeds or multiplies
During the breeding season, males attract females to lay eggs in a crevice. The male guards the eggs with his life, fanning them to ensure they’re oxygenated. No slacking in the tompot parenting department!
Interesting and gruesome fact
Tompot Blennies have tufts of tentacle-like structures above their eyes, giving them a perpetually surprised look. They are bold little fish and will often investigate snorkelers and divers—rockpool paparazzi beware.
Its habitats
Found in rocky intertidal zones and tide pools. They love crevices and algae-covered rocks for both food and protection.
Two-spotted Goby
Gobiusculus flavescens
bernardpicton, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Two-spotted Goby
Gobiusculus flavescens
What it eats
Tiny crustaceans and other planktonic animals.
How it breeds or multiplies
Males guard eggs in empty shells or crevices.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Can change color to match their surroundings—nature's masters of disguise!
Its habitats
Among seaweed and rocky areas in shallow water.
Velvet Swimming Crab
Necora puber
Olivier Dugornay, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Velvet Swimming Crab
Necora puber
What it eats
Small fish, mollusks, and even carrion. These crabs are opportunists—if it's edible, they'll eat it.
How it breeds or multiplies
Females carry thousands of eggs under their abdomen, which hatch into tiny planktonic larvae. A proud mama crab moment.
Interesting and gruesome fact
Known as the "angry crab" for its aggressive nature, it waves its pincers like a boxer in a ring. It also has bright red eyes that give it a permanently evil glare.
Its habitats
Shallow waters with rocky or sandy bottoms. They're often seen swimming awkwardly backward like they've had too much seaweed wine.