The shallow water that lies above a rocky bottom has its own unique characteristics.  This is an area that is well lighted by the sun, so seaweeds can flourish here, clinging to the rocks with their holdfasts. As the water gets deeper the light becomes dimmer, and the forms and colors of the seaweeds show adaptation to the reduced light.

     Some of the animals and algae that grow here can also survive in the littoral zone, but many of the organisms,. such as fishes,  need to be in water all the time.  

      The rocks provide hiding places for animals, and surfaces where barnacles and mussels can attach themselves.  Incoming waters are stopped and redirected by the rocks, leading to miniature local currents and eddies.  What kinds of fish do you think would do well here?  This region has its challenges and its own unique ecosystems.