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Map Satellite One of the largest shale reefs on the continent, this area is particularly rich in marine invertebrates. It is especially notable for large populations of rock-boring invertebrates and for the unusual and vast horizontal beds of the California mussel, Mytilus californianus.
Other animals of note include the acorn worm, Saccoglossus ssp., owl limpet, Lottia ssp., and gunboat chiton, Cryptiochiton ssp. There are numerous tide-pools with a wide variety of fauna.
The reef system is of Monterey shale, dating from the Miocene. The shale contains fossils of marine mammals.
Integrity: Populations were reduced in the more accessible parts by over-collecting; however, since the establishment of the Reserve, it is anticipated that they will recover.
Use: Research, educational. All forms of aquatic life are protected except certain game fish, abalone and market crabs.
May 1975
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2008 Steven Louis Hartman
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