1. The Intertidal Zone

2. Tidal Zones
The intertidal zone is the area of the shore that is submerged during part of the tidal cycle.
The lowest parts of the intertidal zone are only exposed to air for a few days a month
The highest parts are only submerged for a few days a month

3. Low Tide Zone This area is only exposed at low tide.
Rich in kelp and sea weed
Animals here are rarely exposed to harsh sunlight, but often exposed to predatory fish and rough waves
Organisms here are adapted to resist wave action

4. Mid Tide Zone
Submerged during every high tide, exposed during every low tide
Plants are rare here, most organisms are animals like clams, starfish and crabs
Animals are adapted to changing from water to air every day (clams and anemones seal up to preserve moisture)

5. High Tide Zone Only submerged during high tides
Land plants such as mangroves may live here
Populated by animals highly resistant to drying out
Clams and anemones seal themselves up to preserve moisture
Crabs can breathe air for hours