Dana Point Marine Area

Map Satellite

Most of this area lies within the Dana Point Marine Life Refuge, though a portion extends seaward of the Refuge boundary.

There are excellent wash-rock communities on the San Juan rocks. Offshore the bottom is low-lying bedrock that is frequently inundated with sand, which affects the species composition. This is the best example of this type of habitat along the Southern California coast. In the deeper water the rocks protrude more, and usual bottom communities of rocky substrate appear.

Among the algae present are Egregia laevigata, Eisenia arborea, Pterygophora californica, Laminaria farlowii, as well as numerous red algae, especially Gelidium cartilagineum. A large bed of giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera, formerly existed in the deep water portion; however, it disappeared during the warm-water period of 1957-59. A kelp bed upcoast is being restored and this former bed may reappear eventually.

Among the more interesting invertebrates found in the area are the gorgonians, Muricea californica and Muricea fructicosa. The former, a southern species, reaches its northern limit some 25 kilometers (15 miles) north, at Newport Bay.

Integrity: The presence of a nearby harbor has led to increased recreational fishing in the area; however, most fish and invertebrates are protected. See Doheny Beach Marine Life Refuge for details.

Use: Research, educational, observational, present.

March 1977