Welcome

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary is home to a rich and diverse community of marine life. The shoreline topography and currents in this region facilitate mixing of cool, nutrient rich waters from the north with warmer waters from the south, creating a biologic transition zone that brims with life. The purpose of the "Encyclopedia of the Sanctuary" project is to provide you with the essential information about the marine species found in each of the 14 national marine sanctuaries. The species cards are characterized by quick facts, photographs, and video glimpses into the marine world. The 100 species selected for inclusion in the "Encyclopedia of the Sanctuary" represent species that are both economically and ecologically important. We hope you find this to be a valuable resource and visit often. Your feedback is welcomed.