There’s a lot to know about the ocean! Here are some of our favourite resources to help you on your quest to learn about local marine life.

The intertidal zone is a fascinating place with so many species to observe and learn about. Below you will find some of our intertidal ecology resources including videos, colouring pages, educational material, and more! You can download and print many of these resources to use with your family and friends.

Intertidal BINGO #1 and #2

Check out these common intertidal species (Nuu-Chah-Nulth & English)

Intertidal Colouring Pages:

Mussels in the Rocky Intertidal (answers here)

Octopus in the Kelp Forest (answers here)

Hooded Nudibranch in Eel Grass Beds (answers here)

The Skate in Sandy Shores (answers here)

Our role: The Ucluelet Aquarium has been very fortunate to host a variety of rockfish species over the years. Since 2017 we have increased our efforts to spread awareness about the precarious status of these fish in our region and to provide solutions for visiting and local harvesters. In 2017 we successfully distributed 300 descending devices to help sport and recreational fishermen address the issue of rockfish barotrauma.

How you can help: There are a number of ways that you can help the recovery of inshore rockfish. Number one – know your fish! Whether your harvesting or purchasing the first step is to  know what exactly is on your plate. If you are a fisherman (or woman) the most direct way you can help these fish is to use a descending device when dealing with rockfish by-catch (unwanted catch). As a purchaser of fish in restaurants and marketplaces you can help by purchasing responsibly. Rockfish are often sold under different aliases. Know what you’re buying and, if possible, choose sustainable options. Where was the fish bought? How was it caught? Check out the Vancouver Aquarium’s Oceanwise Program for more information about sustainable seafood options!

More information about rockfish: 

Rockfish identification guide

BC Rockfish Conservation Areas 

TED-Ed the effects of barotrauma

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Rockfish Barotrauma Information 

Rockfish Barotrauma Rap