Environmental Protection Agency Narragansett Bay Commission University of Rhode Island Inner Space Center

Estuarine Science

Intertidal Community

1. Where is the Intertidal Zone?
2. What are the different regions of the Intertidal Zone?
3. What kinds of plants and animals can we find in the Intertidal Zones of Narragansett Bay?
4. How do animals adapt to living in this community?


3. What kinds of plants and animals can we find in the Intertidal Zones of Narragansett Bay?

Many distinct and unique organisms can be found in the Intertidal Zone of Narragansett Bay. These organisms are special because of their ability to adapt to the environment around them. The severe and varying weather conditions make life in this zone hard for any animal. In spite of these challenges, it is still one of the most highly populated areas.

Each region in the Intertidal Community has organisms particular to that environment. Which region the organism can be found in depends on its ability to adapt to those surroundings. These organisms can include algae, periwinkles, barnacles, sea urchins, mussels, crabs, sea stars, sea anemones, sponges, jellyfish, fish, lobster, shrimp, clams, and many more.

Note: For more information about the organisms in this zone see the Biota Gallery or OMP's DOCE website.


Mussels & Crab

Barnacles & Periwinkles
(Click for larger images)

1. Where is the Intertidal Zone?
2. What are the different regions of the Intertidal Zone?
3. What kinds of plants and animals can we find in the Intertidal Zones of Narragansett Bay?
4. How do animals adapt to living in this community?


(Image credits are listed in Image Index)

Please Note: This website is maintained as an archive of the project. This website is no longer under development.

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