|
Map Satellite Embracing much of the inshore area of Carmel Bay, this area contains a diversity of marine flora and fauna.
The most conspicuous plant is the giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera, which forms a dense canopy in places, particularly off Monastery Beach and the sheltered and shallow Stillwater Cove. The latter, which is calmer and warmer than the remainder of the area, has a unique flora. The algae Egregia laevigata, Halorphipis minstonii and Leathesia nana are found only here on the Monterey Peninsula. Other species found occasionally elsewhere in the area but found here in abundance include Laurencia spectabilis, Laurencia pacific, Rhodoglossum americanum, Cumagloia andersonii, Ilea fascia, Petrosponqium rugosum, and Scytosiphon lomentarium. Within the park over 100 species of algae can probably be found.
The area is rich in marine vertebrates and invertebrates. Stillwater Cove is a favorite resting area for female otters, Enhydra lutris, and pups.
The head of the Carmel Submarine Canyon begins off the mouth of San Jose Creek. Approximately 50 meters (160 feet) offshore the canyon walls drop abruptly, resulting in a dense and varied growth of marine life.
Integrity: As Monastery Beach is one of the more heavily dived sites in California, the area is suffering from over-collecting.
Use: Research, educational, observational.
Ref: Smith, Gilbert, 1969. Marine Algae of the Monterey Peninsula, Calif. Stanford Univ. Press, Stanford, Calif. 751 pp.
August 1976
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman
|
