Monterey
Ecosystem Overview
The Monterey ecosystem supports 100 documented wildlife species across 82 taxonomic genera. Located in monterey county, california, this area provides critical habitat with diverse natural communities. The location hosts 21 frequently observed species and 19 occasionally documented species, creating a balanced ecosystem with both resident and visiting wildlife. Compared to nearby Salinas, Monterey hosts 170% more species diversity. This location ranks #3 for species diversity among 24 monterey county County natural areas, placing it in the 88th percentile for biodiversity.
Biodiversity Highlights
Species Distribution
Regional Context
Most Common Species
Showing 20 most frequently observed species out of 100 total documented species.
Sebastes mystinus
Blue rockfish
Sebastes atrovirens
Kelp rockfish
Oxyjulis californica
Embiotoca lateralis
Striped surfperch
Rhacochilus vacca
Pile Seaperch
Embiotoca jacksoni
Black Perch
Patiria miniata
Strongylocentrotus purpuratus
purple sea urchin
Pisaster giganteus
Hexagrammos decagrammus
Kelp Greenling
Cryptochiton stelleri
giant Pacific chiton
Sebastes chrysomelas
Rockfish
Zalophus californianus
California Sealion
Larus occidentalis
Western Gull
Mesocentrotus franciscanus
red sea urchin
Megathura crenulata
giant keyhole limpet
Haliotis rufescens
Red Abalone
Crassadoma gigantea
Rhacochilus toxotes
Rubberlip seaperch
Urile penicillatus
Brandt's Cormorant
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Nearby Wildlife Areas in Monterey County
Discover 8 other wildlife-rich locations near Monterey. Each offers unique biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.
🌿 Premier Wildlife Areas (5 nearby)
🦅 Rich Wildlife Destinations (1 nearby)
🌱 Specialized Habitats (1 nearby)
📍 Explore These Areas (1 nearby)
Regional Wildlife Network
These nearby locations complement Montereywithin Monterey County's wildlife network. Species counts reflect documented observations and help identify the most biodiverse areas for your nature explorations.