National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Channel Islands National ParkSanta Rosa Island tidepools (Rocky Rudolph)
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Channel Islands National Park
Natural Features & Ecosystems
 

The significance of Channel Islands National Park stems from the islands’ remote, isolated position at the confluence of two major ocean currents, a region of persistent oceanic upwelling, and the border of two tectonic plates. The park contains examples of two biogeographical provinces in the ocean, the Oregonian and the Californian, and a dynamic transition zone between them. In a remarkably small area, the park harbors the biologic diversity of nearly 1,000 miles of the West Coast of North America. In addition to this diversity, park waters are also exceptionally productive. Swirling around the islands, cool, nutrient-rich oceanic waters rise into abundant sunlight and mix with warm coastal waters, accelerating photosynthesis and growth rates of myriad forms of sea life from microscopic plankton to blue whales.

The park preserves some of the finest remnants of the coastal Mediterranean-type ecosystem in America. The most endangered in the world, this type of ecosystem is found in only five places. The unique suite of plants and animals that have colonized the islands and their isolation over eons has resulted in the evolution of many endemic species and subspecies. The park also harbors a prolific paleontological record; archeological resources that record nearly 13,000 years of continuous human occupation; and historical features that represent ranching, fishing, hunting, navigation, and other endeavors from a wide variety of cultures.

The Channel Islands National Park provides the public with unparalleled opportunities for solitude, tranquility, wildlife viewing, and appreciation of natural history, outdoor recreation, and education.

MarineMap
MarineMap
Check out this great interactive map highlighting important features of the Channel Islands.
more...
Santa Rosa Island Slideshow
Santa Rosa Island Slideshow
View what the beautiful island of Santa Rosa has to offer visitors.
more...
chis geology
Geology fieldnotes
Learn about the geology of the Channel Islands
more...
ThankYouOcean.Org
ThankYouOcean.Org
ThankYouOcean.Org provides access to everything ocean in California.
more...
Island night lizard                                     C. Drost  

Did You Know?
The only reptile found on Santa Barbara Island is the endemic and threatened island night lizard. These lizards can live up to 20 years or more, but once established in a territory generally remain within a 3-meter radius their entire life.

Last Updated: August 31, 2006 at 19:52 EST