There are many different species of fish to be found in the sea of the Marine
Reserve. Some species prefer living in the shallow water, which cover the shore
areas when the tide is in. When the tide goes out they either hide in rockpools
or lie under stones where there is enough water trapped to keep them damp until
the tide comes back in.
Shores with rockpools or lots of boulders are the best places to hunt for fish
and are found along most of the Marine Reserve. The commonest fish found on the
shore are the Eelpout and Butterfish. These are often found hiding under stones
or dense seaweed when the tide is out. When they are uncovered they are able to
wriggle away very quickly and are difficult to catch without a net.
Fish that can be found in rockpools when the tide is out include the Shanny and
the 15-spined Stickleback. More rarely other species of fish, which have been
trapped as the tide goes out, and found stranded and dead or in rockpools. You
may even find species like the Scorpion fish or the Lumpsucker.
You can also find some species of fish on sandy shores, particularly around the
low water mark. If you walk though the shallow water here you may disturb flat
fish such as Flounders and Plaice. Sandeels may also be found here, they are
particularly important as food to many species of seabird.
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