In my time exploring the kelp forests of the Channel Islands, I saw sharks, snails, seals, nudibranchs, and many fish species.
This interesting fish is appropriately named the “crevice kelpfish”. I took this photograph in the Channel Islands, amongst the kelp forests it is named for. Where are the Channel Islands? The Channel Islands are an island archipelago located off the coast of southern California. It is a National Park, half of which is underwater. The total size of the Channel Islands National park is 249,000+ acres. The islands that are included in the National Park include Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, Anacapa, San Miguel, and Santa Rosa.
What is a kelp forest? Imagine an underwater forest. Similar to a typical forest, this environment houses large leafy green plants that grow in tight formation, rooting in the sand and growing towards the surface. This environment provides critical habitat for a variety of marine life. In my time exploring the kelp forests of the Channel Islands, I saw sharks, snails, seals, nudibranchs, and many fish species. Marine mammals also use the protection of the kelp forest, including sea otters, whales, and seals. Seals weave through the stalks of kelp with ease. Here is a video I took of a playful seal who approached me in the kelp forest.
What is it like to dive in a kelp forest? It is a unique marine environment for a few factors. When you are swimming through the kelp forest, it is easy to get lost because everything looks similar. As a diver, you can use your underwater compass to overcome this issue. It’s a good idea to stay close to your dive buddy when swimming through a kelp forest. Underwater there is no luxury of yelling out to your friend if you lose sight of them.
So why go exploring here? It is a uniquely beautiful environment. The sunlight dances off the kelp as it silently sways back and forth in the current and waves. Fish dart in and out of the kelp. Some fish seek refuge in rocky reef structure at the bottom, like this crevice kelpfish. These fish are able to change their body color to help them camouflage with their background.
The sunlight dances off the kelp as it silently sways back and forth in the current and waves.
Check out our 2021 Camouflage Gallery
Did You Know?
- Crevice kelpfish eat bristle worms, crabs, shrimp, isopods, and even fish eggs!
- Kelp can grow up to 18 inches in one day.
- Human remains dating back to 13,000 B.C. were found on Santa Rosa Island in 1959.
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