This week’s Species in Focus is the Cornish Sucker. This unique looking fish may be little but packs a powerful ability to latch on to rocky surfaces using its adapted pelvic fins.
Galathea squamifera, the common squat lobster, is a species of intertidal crustacean. Don’t be fooled by the name- these fancy fellows are actually more closely related to hermit crabs than lobsters.
Barnacles, or Cirripedia, are one of the most abundant groups of species present on many rocky shores. However, to the untrained eye, the grey-white carpet of miniature creatures coating the rocks underfoot can seem an identification nightmare. Recently, we were extremely fortunate to have barnacle expert Mike Puleston give us a talk full of the tricks of the trade when it comes to UK barnacle ID.
The Atlantic bobtail squid (Sepiola atlantica) is truly a hidden gem of the rocky shore. These camouflage wizards are so easy to overlook that they are usually only spotted when accidentally disturbed, spending much of their time buried in the sand with only their eyes peeking out.
Also known as the common blenny, the shanny is one of the most common and characterful of all rock pool residents. With their downturned smile and discerning gaze, these fierce fish are not to be overlooked!
Situated in the heart of Falmouth, Castle Beach is one of our most popular survey sites. At low tide, the shingle beach gives way to a wide expanse of rock pools, home to a huge range of biodiversity. The marine life is so good here that at high tide, castle beach provides an excellent snorkelling location and the wreck offshore is a well-known dive site.
Beautiful yet deadly, anemones are some of the rock pool’s most ferocious inhabitants. Here’s a snapshot of everything you need to know to tell these colourful critters apart.
