We are big (sea) fans of Rocky Point

Shortly after our early breakfast we loaded onto the truck and headed to our favorite spot: Rocky Point. Unfortunately, the dolphins missed our memo to come to visit, but we ventured to the further reef to explore. The differences between the two reefs are outstanding, as the coral changes from dominated by sea fans to gorgonians. While much of the sea life between the reefs remains the same, we saw another large barracuda, a few more trumpet fish, and plenty of parrotfish and blue tangs. For some, this was the first time we saw Flamingo's Tongue, and Mike Behrens captured quite the amazing photograph.

 

We came back to the beach and the group split into two, with some headed to the store and some relaxing on the beach. Those on the beach wrote some notes of their findings, worked on their tan, and looked for shells. We also found some interesting small creatures burrowing in the sand!

 

After lunch we sampled sea grass at Graham's Harbor. Using quadrats and transects we estimated sea grass coverage and counted stems. This took quite a bit longer than we had imagined, and was also much more difficult. We learned to dive and hold our breaths proficiently during this activity. After a few exhausting hours of counting sea grass, we headed to the station for dinner and class. We compiled our data and talked figures from the night before. Now its time to apply aloe to ours burns and head to bed!