Common Sea Life of Southeastern Alaska

Common Sea Life ofSoutheastern AlaskaA field guide byAaron Baldwin &Paul NorwoodAll pictures taken by Aaron Baldwinunless otherwise noted.Last update 08/15/2015uasbiology@gmail.com

Table of ContentsIntroduction …............................................................. …...2Exploring SE Beaches …………………………….….. …...3Sponges ………………………………………….…….. …...4Cnidarians (Jellyfish, hydroids, corals,sea pens, and sea anemones) ……..........................…....8Flatworms ………………………….………………….. …..21Parasitic worms …………………………………………….22Nemertea (Ribbon worms) ………………….………... ….23Annelid (Segmented worms) ………………………….….25Mollusks ………………………………..………………. ….38Polyplacophora (Chitons) ……………………..….38Gastropoda (Snails and slugs) ……….………..….46Bivalvia (Clams, mussels, scallops) …….……. …81Scaphopoda (Tusk shells or dentalia) ………..….97Cephalopoda (Octopuses and squids) ...........…..97Bryozoa (Moss animals) ……….……………............…...99Brachiopoda (Lampshells) ………………..…................103Arthropoda ………………………………………...........104Arachnids, insects, and centipedes ..…..…… ....104Maxillopoda (Barnacles and copepods) ……. …107Peracarida (Amphipods, isopods, etc.) …….. ….111Decapoda (crabs, shrimps, squat lobsters…. ….118Echinodermata ………………………….………...….. ....145Crinoida (Feather stars) …….…….....………. ....145Asterozoa (Brittle stars and sea stars) ………….145Holothuroidea (Sea cucumbers) ……..……..…..161Echinoidea (Sea urchins and sand dollars) ... …..165Invertebrate Chordates (Sea squirts)…….………… .....167Vertebrate Chordates (Fishes) ………………………….167AcknowledgementsIt would be next to impossible to thanks everyone who has helped withthis project. Probably the single-most important contribution that has beenmade comes from the people who have encouraged it along throughoutthe process. That is why new editions keep being completed!First and foremost I want to thanks Rich Mattson of the DIPAC Macaulaysalmon hatchery. He has made this project possible through assistance inobtaining specimens for photographs and for offering encouragement fromthe very beginning. Dr. David Cowles of Walla Walla University hasgenerously donated many photos to this project. Dr. William Bechtol readthrough the previous version of this, and made several importantsuggestions that have vastly improved this book. Dr. Robert Armstronghosts the most recent edition on his website so it would be available to awider audience. Dr. Douglas Eernisse corrected some of the misnamedspecies based upon recent taxonomic revisions.Marine Biologist Aaron Baldwin on his way out to a rocky point for aminus tide. Notice all-important backpack containing essential supplies(see next page for details!) Photo by Lisa M. Ward.

Common Sea life of Southeastern AlaskaIntroductionSoutheast Alaska (the “Alaskan Panhandle”) is an ecologicallydiverse region that extends from Yakutat to Dixon Entrance southof Prince of Wales Island. A complex of several hundred islands,fjords, channels, and bays, SE Alaska has over 3,000 miles ofcoastline.Most people who live or visit Southeast Alaska have some idea ofthe incredible diversity of nature found here. From mountain tops tothe cold, dark depths of our many fjords, life is everywhere.The marine life of SE Alaska is exceptionally diverse for severalreasons. One is simply the amount of coast, over twice the amountof the coastline of Washington, Oregon, and California combined!Within this enormous coastline there is an incredible variety ofhabitats, each with their own ecological community.Another reason for SE Alaska’s marine diversity is that we are inan overlap zone between two major faunal provinces. Theseprovinces are defined as large areas that contain a similarassemblage of animals. From northern California to SE Alaska is afaunal province called the Oregonian Province. From the AleutianIsland chain to SE Alaska is the Aleutian Province. What thismeans is that while our sea life is generally similar to that seen inBritish Columbia and Washington state, we also have a greatnumber of northern species present.History of this guideThis guide began in 2009 as a simple guide to common seashoreanimals of Juneau, Alaska. The guide was made for a few localgrade school teachers who wanted something to bring to the fieldduring “Sea Week”. At that time the guide was 12 pages long andcontained just 33 species! Because of interest from other teachersI began slowly expanding to include a wider range of species andto make it useful for those on the outer coast. This version nowdetailsBy Aaron Baldwin & Paul Norwoodhttp://www.film.alaska.gov/over 700 species! In addition to expanding the range covered, Ialso decided to include species not commonly seen on theseashore but often caught by anglers or seen in crab and shrimppots. This guide is no where near exhaustive, but hopefully willcover the majority of species most people are likely to encounter.As this work is an ongoing process, user suggestions, correctionsand feedback are greatly appreciated. Email2uasbiology@gmail.com

Exploring SE BeachesExploring Alaska’s beaches can be a rewarding educationalexperience. Like nearly all of Alaska’s recreational activities,knowing a few practical facts can make beach exploration safe,comfortable, and protect this delicate resource.Beach EtiquetteA few simple rules can insure that our beaches can be enjoyed byeveryone. Far too many times I have seen tidepool creaturesunwittingly damaged by careless beachcombers.1) Watch where you step – be aware of where you putyour feet, try to avoid stepping on animals!2) When you turn over a rock, always carefully turn itback over. Leaving it flipped over kills the organismson top of the rock and those underneath.3) Do not try to turn over rocks that are too large – evenif you are able to turn them, you probably can notsafely return it!4) If you collect an organism to show others, keep itwet. Water in a small bucket is an excellent way to dothis. And when you are finished examining yourspecimen, return it to where you found it or at least asimilar habitat.5) Permanent collection of sea animals requires acollection permit in Alaska. If you don’t have apermit, leave it there! Photographs are an excellentway to ‘preserve’ your specimen.6) Sessile (permanently attached) animals usually areusually incapable of reattaching to the substrate.Once removed, they will almost always die so best toleave them where they are!7) As with any outdoor activity, follow the rule “Pack itin, pack it out”. Leaving garbage on beaches isunsightly, environmentally irresponsible, and illegal!SafetyProbably the greatest and most common beach hazard is falling.Rocky beaches are often slippery, especially when covered inseaweed or diatoms. Stepping carefully and choosing your routecan make a difference. Watch for loose rocks, as these can tilt orshift when you step on them. Surge channels should be navigatedcarefully, as unexpected waves have a lot of force in these areas.It is pretty much inevitable that any exploration trip to the intertidalzone will lead to at least one good barnacle cut or scrape. Whilegenerally a minor annoyance rather than a real danger, it is best tomake sure the cut or scrape is cleaned soon after returning home.One rare but present danger that is unique to beachcombing inAlaska are bears. Bears will often forage at low tide, especially inmore remote areas. On one occasion I observed a mother and cubout on the outer coast walking around some large boulders. Whilethere was no danger (I was far above the beach), I could not helpbut recall how many times I have been head-down looking intidepools between those same boulders! The take-home messageis just be aware (and look up and around occasionally!).What to bringWhile what to bring along varies depending on location and yourintent, there are a few basics that make the trip a great deal morepleasant. Rubber boots are a must. I know people who wearcanvas tennis shoes, but those same people inevitably will getbarnacle-scraped ankles! I always will bring a small back packalong. In this I can keep my phone (in a plastic baggie),binoculars, magnifying glass, etc. as well as somewhere to putextra clothing layers if I misjudged the weather. Also a smallcontainer of bug spray can be a great idea. I usually will carry abucket and dipnet (like a medium aquarium net) in case I want toisolate something for photography or to pick up beach trash that isall too common.3

Halichondria panicea – Crumb-of-bread spongeColor yellow, tan, green or light brown-purple. Mid to upper intertidal. Themost common intertidal sponge in SE Alaska.Ophlitaspongia pennata– Red encrusting spongeForms bright red, thin crusts at the lowest intertidal zone. Several othersimilar species are sometimes found.Sponges – Phylum PoriferaThe vast majority of Alaska’s sponges live below the lowesttide line. I have included here a few species encountered inthe intertidal zone as well as some deeper water species.Witha few exceptions, most sponges require microscopicexamination to identify.There are three large groups of sponges. The Calcarea aresponges with spicules composed of calcium carbonate only.The Demospongia have calcium carbonate and silicaspicules. The Hexactinellida have only silica spicules. Thelatter group are abundant deep water sponges and can beseveral meters tall.Haliclona sp.– Purple intertidal spongeLocal species is undetermined and may be unnamed. May be purple,green, yellow, or orange. Mid to high intertidal.4

Mycale adharens – Smooth scallop spongeNearly always on the shells of scallops (Chlamys spp.). Usually forming athinner crust than does Myxilla incrustans (below).Spicules!The “skeleton” of sponges is a complex matrix of proteins andtiny structures called spicules. These spicules are commonlymade of calcium carbonate or silica (glass). These spiculescome in hundreds of shapes and sizes, and most sponges haveseveral different types. The form and combination of these isunique to each sponge species and is how scientists identifysponges.Most shallow water sponges belong to the class Demospongiaand have spicules made of silica (glass) and a protein known asspongin. Members of the class Hexactinellida are commondeepwater species in Alaska and have spicules made of silicabut never have spongin fibers. The smallest class is theCalcarea which are distinguished by spicules made of calciteonly and lacking spongin fibers.Myxilla incrustans – Rough scallop spongeAs the name indicates, this sponge has a rough surface with many raisedoscula. May form massive clumps on scallops (Chlamys spp).Illustration “Various forms of sponge spicules” fromAugusta Foote Arnold’s “Sea Beach at Ebb Tide” 19035

Sycon compactum – Tiny vase spongeCommon species, but easily overlooked in the low intertidal. Forms asingle to several simple, thin-walled hollow tubes.Halisarca sacrum – Slippery spongeUsually found under rocks, this sponge forms a slick ‘film’ over thesubstrate. Yellow to light brown in color. Lacks spiculesSyringella amphispicula – Tough yellow branching spongeThis distinct sponge has a tough outer layer that is like thin plastic. Foundin the low intertidal and subtidal. Color and shape are distinct.Aplysilla sp. – Encrusting hairy spongeThe spicules of this species stick out of the tiny pointed tubercles. 6 Thesponge is found under rocks and is a very thin encrusting species.

Photo by Erika AcunaNeoesperiopsis digitata – Finger spongeThis subtidal sponge can be occasionally found in the drift zone, especiallyfollowing storms. Red or purple when alive. Other species may be found.Suberites latus– Hermit crab spongeThis subtidal sponge grows on shells occupied by hermit crabs andeventually dissolves the shell completely and grows with the hermit.Cliona californiana – Boring spongeBright yellow spots on seashells and barnacles when alive. Remains ofseashells riddled with holes frequently seen in beach drift.Heterochone calyx – Vase spongeA deep water species, these are occasionally snagged by fishing 7 gear. Avery large sponge, often exceeding 1 meter in height!

Aurelia labiata – Moon jellyfishEasily distinguished by the four horseshoe-shaped gonads visible incenter of bell. Sometimes phosphorescent.Cyanea capillata – Lions mane jellyfishThe red or orange color on this species is distinct. These can give apainful sting. Sometimes strand on beach in large numbers.Chrysaora melanaster– Sea nettle or Rising sun jellyfishThis oceanic species occasionally washes ashore following storms on theouter coast. The radiating brown stripes are distinctive.Jellyfish, hydroids, corals, and seaanemones – Phylum CnidariaThis diverse phylum are united by the presence ofspecialized stinging cells called nematocysts. Theseare used both for defense and to immobilize prey.There are four large groups of cnidarians found inSE Alaska. These are; Scyphozoa (jellyfish),Hydroida (hydroids and hydrocorals), Staurozoa(stalked jellyfish), and Anthozoa (sea anemones andcorals).8

Halicystus stejnegeri – Common stalked jellyfishLook for this unusual animal on algae just below the water’s edge at thelowest tides on the outer coast. Common but very well camouflaged.Photo by David CowlesPolyorchis pencillatus – Red-eye jellyfishA small but often abundant jelly, this species is usually 1-3 cm in diameter.The ~100 or so small red eyes are distinctAequorea victoria – Water jellyFrequently seen around docks, the water or many-ribbed jelly has 80 ormore radial canals most visible around the margin. Bioluminescent.Alternate life cycles!The un-stalked jellies on this page are the planktonic ormedusa stages of hydroids. When looking at the sessile orhydroid phase (see the next page) one might never guessthat these medusae come from similar organisms. In fact,many times the hydroid phase has been given a differentscientific name than the medusa until someone discovers thatthey are the same animal! There are many medusae andhydroids that have yet to be matched.Typically the medusa stage is the sexual phase that willproduce larva (called planula). The larva will settle on theseafloor and grow into the plant-like hydroid phase thatreproduces asexually and will eventually produce hundreds offree swimming medusae.9

Gonionemus vertens – Clinging jellyfishUnlike many jellies this species often adheres to algae, eelgrass or otherfixed objects. One of several dozen hydromedusae found in SE Alaska.Velella velella – By-the-wind sailorThis usually tropical species is sometimes stranded on Alaskan coastalbeaches by the millions. Animal is actually single giant polyp!Garveia spp. – Red hydroidsAt least two species are common in SE Alaska, a shallow subtidal species (G.annulatum) and an unidentified deep water species (>300 m) shown above.Aglaophenia struithionoides - Ostrichplume hydroidCommon on the outer coast, this hydroid is often found in clusters of 10 ormore ‘feathers’ on the sides of rocks. Often mistaken for clumps of algae.

Obelia spp. – Wine-glass hydroidsBrown, densely tufted algae-like growths. Abundant on floating docks.Complex species, difficult to identify.Hydractinia spp.– Hermit crab fuzzThese fascinating hydroids nearly always grow on the snail shellsoccupied by hermit crabs. The hydroid colony eventually becomes theshell and will protect the hermit with their stinging cells.Abietinaria spp. – Course sea firsUsually in the lowest intertidal and subtidal. These have a fern-like growthpattern and branches with tiny spines giving the ‘course’ appearance.Hydroids – Plants or animals?Hydroids are found nearly everywhere in Alaska’s marineenvironment but are often overlooked or mistaken forseaweeds. While exposed by the tides hydroids often doresemble marine plants more than they do animals. But whencovered by water the careful observer will see hundreds oftiny polyps emerge that resemble tiny sea anemones.Often the polyps of hydroids come in two basic types. Thefeeding polyps (gasterozoids) capture tiny animals from thewater and feed the colony. These are the most common polyptype. The second type are called gonozoids and their job is toproduce the free-swimming medusae as seen on the previouspage.11

Stylantheca pterograpta – Encrusting hydrocoralSuperficially similar to coralline algae – look for abundant star-shapedpores. Usually restricted to the lowest tide zones and subtidal.Stylaster campylecus. – Common hydrocoralRestricted to moderately deep water, these hydrocorals are sometimessnagged by fishing gear. Mostly branching in single plane (fan-like).Hard coralsMany people are surprised to learn that Alaska has a hugediversity of corals. Most of these live in very deep water andare rarely seen. These deepwater corals are the subject ofmuch study as they are important habitat for many fish,crabs, and shrimp.The three species on this page are actually hydroids with ahard skeleton and are thus called “hydrocorals”. The cupcorals (next page) as well as the sea pens and soft corals areanthozoans. Anthozoan corals are related to the better-knowntropical reef corals, although species in Alaska do not formtrue reefs.Stylaster cf. alaskensis – Alaskan hydrocoralCommon deep water (>300 m) hydrocoral. Branching in tree-like pattern.Pores very large and mostly at branch tips. Cream to orange-pink color.12

Balanophyllia elegans – Orange cup coralThe only true stony coral likely to be encountered in the intertidal zone.Found in semi-protected areas on the outer coast.Caryophllia alaskensis – Alaskan cup coralA common shallow to deep subtidal species that resembles a seaanemone but polyp is inside calcareous wine-glass shaped cup.Crispatotrochus foxi – Fox’s cup coralCommon deepwater cup coral often seen attached to sponges andbarnacles snagged by longline gear. Fewer septa than Alaskan cup coral.Metridium senile – Plumose anemoneMost often white or brown, some populations are nearly all orange.Usually less than 10 cm (4”) tall. Tentacles unbranched.

Sea anemones – A garden of colors!Most people are familiar with sea anemones. Several speciesin Alaska occupy the upper tidal zones are commonly seen bybeach walkers. These “flowers of the sea” are found in aseemingly endless variety of colors, even within a singlespecies.Sea anemones use the stinging cells on their tentacles tocapture prey. When we touch these, they feel sticky. But foran unlucky small animal these tentacles not only hold themtight but inject a poison that may paralyze or even kill.Anemones with thin, delicate tentacles like the Metridiumspecies on this page primarily capture tiny planktoniccreatures. Other species have stronger tentacles and cancatch fish. The bright green anemones have microscopicplants in their bodies that they “farm” for food!Metridium farcimen – Giant plumose anemoneWhite or brown, rarely orange. Often over 40 cm(16”) tall, to 1 m (39”)tall. Tentacles branching. Abundant on pilings and floating docks.Anthopleura artemisia - Moon glow anemoneLight bands on tentacles distinct, color green, brown, pale orange, or pink.Burrows in sand, abundant in tidepools.Anthopleura xanthogrammica – Giant green anemoneRestricted to outer coast, often in areas of heavy surf. Most often 14 solidshade of green. Column often coated in pebbles or shells.

Urticina grebelnyi - Christmas anemoneNewly named, bumpy green and red column distinct. Sometimes solid lightbrown. Often 20 cm (8”) or larger in height. Formerly Urticina crassicornisUrticina columbiana – Sand rose anemoneColumn often completely buried in sand. Column with light, raised tuberclesin broken rows. Tentacles long and tapering, “droopy”, often white at tips.Urticina coriacea – Stubby rose anemoneColumn with tubercles slightly lighter colored than background. Columnshort, often buried. Tentacles short, stubby.Urticina piscivora – Fish eating anemoneSubtidal, rarely intertidal. Smooth red column distinctive. Color 15 oftentacles and oral area variable.

Cribinopsis fernaldi – Crimson anemoneThis species is usually subtidal, although common in the intertidal inPetersburg, Alaska. Red chevron marks on tentacles distinctive.Cribinopsis albopunctatus – White spotted anemoneFormerly called Urticina lofotenis. The white spots on the smooth redcolumn are distinct. Usually found on the outer coast.Epiactis prolifera – Brooding anemoneRadiating white lines are distinct. They are most often red, but may bebrown or green. Sometimes have tiny anemones around the base.Stomphia coccinea – Swimming sea anemoneThis subtidal species will actually detach from substrate and swim 16 to avoidpredators such as sea stars. Tentacles with white spot at base.

Cymbactis faeculenta – Rough purple sea anemoneCommonly snagged by longline gear in deep water (such as blackcodsets). Orange tentacles and very thick skinned sculptured column aredistinct.Actinauge verrilli – Cobblestone sea anemoneThis common deep water anemone is often snagged by longline gear. Skincovered by pebble-like tubercles make this species unmistakable.Corallimorpha pilatus – Club-tipped sea anemoneAnother common deep water anemone, the maroon to purple tentacleswith white rounded ‘club’ at tips are distinctive. Column usually off-white.Corynactis californica – Strawberry sea anemoneRestricted to southern portion of SE Alaska, this very social bright pink speciesprefers outer coast areas with strong currents. Forms large aggregations.

Pachycerianthus fimbriatus – Tube dwelling sea anemoneA seemingly uncommon subtidal species in our region. The very longtentacles and buried tube are distinct. Tube is buried in sand or mud.Liponema brevicorne – Tentacle-shedding sea anemoneAs the common name suggests, this deep-water anemone readily sheds itstentacles when disturbed. Orange-red color distinct, as is shedding behavior.Clavularia morbesbii – Encrusting stolon coralCommon subtidal species consisting of a flat, fleshy sheet with numerous eighttentacledpolyps emerge. Often attached to deep water corals and barnacles.Gersemnia rubiformis – Sea raspberryUncommon intertidally except on outer coast, abundant subtidal species.Coral lacking hard parts, polyps (right) extend from fleshy mass.

Ptilosarcus gurneyi – Orange sea penRarely intertidal, common shallow subtidal species. Capable of retractingcompletely into sand. Bioluminescent when disturbed.Swiftia pacifica – Pacific red sea fanThis common species is usually seen on the open coast in areas withheavy currents. Often on sea walls. Narrow red branches distinct.Halipteris willemoesi – Giant sea penThis sea pen is always subtidal but is sometimes caught by fishing gear.This species commonly exceeds 1 meter in height!Sea pens and soft coralsThe sea pens and soft corals (also called gorgonians) arecollectively known as “octocorals” because the structure ofthe individual polyps tends to be in eights or multiples ofeight. The polyp below has its tentacles retracted but you cancount the body divisionsMost of Alaska’s octocorals are verydeep water, but a few species areshallow or are brought up by fishinggear. In the Aleutian Islands and Gulfof Alaska some deep water areashave been designated “coral gardens”and are protected from humanactivities.19

Primnoa pacifica – Red tree coralProbably the most commonly seen of the deep sea corals. Commonlysnagged by longline or pot gear. Smells like cucumber when fresh!Paragorgia arborea – Bubblegum coralThis large, fragile coral is only occasionally seen when snagged by fishinggear. Thick, fleshy yellow to pink or red branches distinctive.Isidella tentaculum . – Bamboo coralThe skeletons of bamboo corals are usually white with dark brown nodes.Polyps quickly become gelatinous when out of the water.Deep Sea CoralsThe species on this page are all representatives of a diversegroup known as deep sea corals. While most are found below100 meters or more, a few species are shallower. Thesecorals, along with the hydrocorals (page 8) and deep-watersponges are an important component of the deep oceans.They create a complex, three dimensional bottom structurethat is used by a large number of other organisms forprotection.These often large corals are usually seen when tangled infishing gear. Unfortunately, once they dislodged for thebottom the colony cannot re-attach and will probably die.Interest in preserving these fragile and important creatureshas resulted in the creation of areas where fishing activity isprohibited or limited.20

Notoplana sanjuania – Common flatwormThis is one of many nearly identical species common in intertidal systems.Proper identification involves microscopic dissections.Notoplana sanguinea – Saddleback flatwormThis is the only member of the genus that can be positively identified inthe field. The red band behind the eyes is distinctive.Flatworms - Phylum PlayhelminthesThe free-living flatworms are all grouped as Turbellarians.This separates them from the other flatworm groups,Trematoda (the flukes) and the Cestoda (the tapeworms)both of which are exclusively parasites.There are several intertidal species in SE Alaska, most ofwhich require complicated preservation methods followed bydissections to identify.Kaburakia excelsa – Giant flatwormMostly confined to outer coast, rarely encountered in Juneau. Size,reaching 10 cm (4”) is distinct. Body about as wide as long.21

Entobdella hippoglossi – Halibut skin parasiteA careful examination of a halibut will occasionally reveal the presence ofthese flat, white worms on the skin. These are harmless to humans.Anisakis simplex – Fish nematode or roundwormThese worms are often seen when cleaning fish as small, coiledstructures on the organs and meat. These cause anisakiosis in humans.Diphyllobothrium spp. – Salmon tapewormsThere are many species of cestode (tapeworm) that infect salmon. Manyof these are able to infect humans who eat undercooked salmon.Parasitic WormsA large number of worms and worm-like creatures havespecialized as internal or external parasites on fishes. Thetwo above are members of the phylum Platyhelminthes(flatworms). Monogeneans such as Entobdella (above left)are ectoparasites and generally harmless to humans. Thereare, however, several internal parasites of fishes that arecapable of infecting people who eat raw or poorly-cookedfish.Because of this it is important to make sure that all fishintended for human or pet consumption is cooked orotherwise thoroughly treated. Fish that is intended to beeaten raw or partially cooked such as sushi or cold-smokedcan be safely treated by freezing at -4 degrees or colder for aweek or longer.22

Emplectonema gracile – Green ribbon wormHigh intertidal, often in masses. Thin body is green on top and pale yellowbelow. May be abundant. E. burgeri is similar but mottled yellow and purple.Paranemertes peregrina – Purple ribbon wormFound with Emplectonema gracile & E. burgeri, this species is often 4-5mm wide. Peach colored underneath.Amphiporus angulatus – Many-eyed ribbon wormPink to purple on top, white to orange underneath. Head with distinctmarkings (see inset). Up to 10 cm (4”) long, 1-2 cm (.4”-.8”) wide.The ribbon worms - Phylum NemerteaThese soft bodied predators are often abundant in intertidalhabitats. Their generally round or oval cross-sectionsdistinguish them from the flatworms, Unlike annelidsnemerteans do not have any distinct segments, setae (hairs),or parapodia (structures for wlaking or swimming).Nemerteans have a powerful proboscis they can extend tocapture prey.Many nemerteans can be identified in the field by color, whichis often distinctive by species. Positive identification of somespecies, however, often requires detailed dissections.23

Amphiporus bimaculatus – Two spotted ribbon wormSimilar to Amphiporus angulatus, but has two triangular markings on lightcoloredhead. Body color variable but often red or orange.Cerebratulus montgomeryi – Rose ribbon wormThe nearly solid red to maroon body with a white stripe on front of head isdistinct (see inset). Often over 1 meter (39”) in length.Cerebratulus marginatus – White-sided ribbon wormThis large (up to 1 m or 39”) worm is usually pale to dark brown or tanwith a distinct white margin sides of body. Strong swimmer.Tubulanus polymorphus – Orange ribbon wormUsually restricted to outer coast. Red to orange body without white 24 frontas in C. montgomeryi. May exceed 3 meters (10 feet) in length.

Hemipodus borealis – Northern iridescent wormThe pink body and long pointed head are distinct. When disturbed largeproboscis extends with four black teeth at end.Nereis brandti – Clam worm or giant pilewormThis impressive worm can reach over 1 m (39”) in length! Common onsandflats, the careful observer may see the front half extending from theburrow then quickly retreating when disturbed.Nereis vexillosa – Pile wormAbundant intertidal species, often 15 cm (6”) long. Commonly foundcrawling around rocks or in mussel beds.Segmented Worms – Phylum AnnelidaThis large and complex phylum has probably hundreds ormore representatives in Alaska. There are many undescribedspecies. Many of these are very difficult to separate in the fieldand require micro-dissection.Most of our marine species are in a group called thepolychaetes. These often have well-developed parapodia,which are leg-like structures used for walking, burrowing, orswimming. There are also some marine oligochates andleaches which lack parapodia.For some groups I found it better to just include arepresentative of the family as sorting out to species or evengenus in the field is close to impossible.25

Nereis procera – Little pilewormUnlike many other species of Nereis, this species is light pink in color. Theshape of the head, 4 eyes, and long cirri distinguish this from bloodworms.The Phyllodocid PolychaetesThe bloodworms, pileworms, clam worms, goddess worms,paddle worms, scale worms, and sea mice (as well as manyothers not shown here!) belong to a very large order ofpolychaetes called the Phyllodocida. These worms arecharacterized by having serially-repeated appendages calledparapodia on each segment that they use like a centipedeuses its legs. In phyllodocids these parapodia are nearlyidentical the whole length of the worm. Most phyllodocids alsohave antennae, strong jaws, and a reproductive phase calledan epitoke. In the epitoke phase the parapodia becomestrong swimming paddles and the worm will often swim to thesurface to spawn and die. The epitoke is particularlyimpressive in the giant clam worm Nereis brandtii!Nephtys caeca – Goddess or sand wormThis burrowing species is commonly seen by clam diggers. Lightercolored than most Nereis spp., this species cannot bite.Eteone longa – Elongate paddle wormA very common burrowing species, this small (

Arctonoe fragilis – Fragile commensal scale wormFound in the ambulacral groove of sea stars, this species lacks the red‘belt’ of A. vittata. Scales often missing.Arctonoe vittata – Red-banded commensal scale wormSegments 7 and 8 with a distinct brown to red ‘belt’. Scales more firmlyattached than in A. fragilis.Scale worms – Superfamily PolynoideaThis group of closely related families are collectively calledthe scale worms. The most commonly encountered speciesare in the family Polynoidae. Most species have 15 pairs ofdorsal scales called elytra, although a few have more or less.Scale worms are often commensal with other invertebrates.Turn over large sea stars to see the scale worms in the genusArctonoe. Other species are free living and can be foundunder rocks in the intertidal zone.The large sea mice (next page) have their elytra mostlycovered by dense fur and are sometimes found crawling oversand but are typically burrowing.Harmothoe imbricata – Free-living scale wormThis abundant species is often under rocks or in mussel clumps. Severalspecies in this family, often require microscopic dissection to id.27

Halosydna brevisetosa - Eighteen-scaled scale wormCarefully counting the paired scales reveals that this common species haseighteen pairs rather than fifteen like most common species of polynoids.Eunoe nodosa – Giant scale wormA very large species (10 cm or 4”) found in the shells occupied by largehermit crabs. Common but not often seen.Gaudichaudius iphionelloides – White-banded scale wormNot common, this scale worm is distinct in having the elytra covered inhoneycomb-like polygonal patches. Found under low intertidal rocks.Aphrodite negligens – Sea mouseA robust, distinct species found occasionally on sand flats or 28 buried inloose sand and gravel.

Pholoe glabra – Little scale wormThese small (

Notomastus pacificus – Pacific threadwormThis abundant species is found in anoxic (black) sediments on mudflats.Digging will reveal hundreds of these delicate worms in some areas.Maldanidae – Bamboo wormMembers of the family Maldanidae have elongate segments with ‘nodes’in between somewhat resembling bamboo stalks. These live in flexibletubes that resemble straws sticking out of the sand.Aberenicola pacifica – Pacific Neapolitan lugwormCommon on sand flats, the presence of this species is revealed by thevolcano-like mounds around the burrows with coiled castings.Bamboo worms, Threadworms, and LugwormsThese worms (and the Ophelia worms on the previous page)allbelong to a large polychaete subclass called the Scolecida.Most members of this family are deposit or suspension feeders.The three families represented on this page are deposit feederswhich means they ingest sediment and extract nutrients fromthat, similar to earthworms in terrestrial habitats.Studies have shown that bamboo worms can be criticalcomponents of the nutrient cycle in some habitats. They feed ondeeply buried sediment and excrete at the surface, returningburied nutrients to the surface. Lugworms and threadworms(Arenicolidae and Capitellidae) aerate anoxic sediments withtheir burrows. The burrows of lugworms harbor otherinvertebrates that benefit both from the protection and the cleanwater supply.30

Prionospio steenstrupi - Bristle wormAbundant in sediments, this species can be found by gently sieving lowintertidal sand. The paired palps are easily lost, as in this specimen.Dipolydora commensalis - Hermit crab borerThis spionid worm burrows into the snail shells occupied by hermit crabs.The paired feeding palps are usually all that is visible in this species.Spio spp. – Spionid tubewormsCommon but easily missed, spionid worms are found in a wide variety ofsandy habitats. The long paired palps are used to capture particles.The only eating utensil you will ever need!The remaining polychaetes in this guide belong to the subclassCanalipalpata. The defining feature of this diverse group is afeeding structure called a palp that has a ciliated groove. Thegroove extends the length of the palp and contains millions oftiny structures called cilia that carry food down the palp to themouth. The size of the groove and structure of the cilia allow theworm to be very selective about the size and type of food itemthat is carried to the mouth.Some worms, like the spionids on this page, have only a singlepair of palps. Others, like the spaghetti worms and featherduster worms, have dozens or more. In feather duster wormsthe palps are modified to form feather-like radioles.31

Paired palpsBrada villosa – Hairy sand peanutNot likely to be mistaken for any other species. Body short and grub-like.Common under rocks in the low intertidal.Flabelligera affinis – Bristled cage wormCommon but easily missed, this species somewhat resembles the hairysand peanut (above). The mucous sheath of this species is partiallyopaque and wrinkled, often with adherent detritus.Flabelligera infundibularis – Transparent-tube cage wormThis fascinating polychaete lives inside of a green gelatinous casing. Theactual worm can be seen inside with hooks extended for walking.The Bristle Cage WormsThe three worms on this page represent an unusual family ofworms called the Flabelligeridae or bristle cage worms. Thecommon name comes from the fact that many species have acrown of very long, stiff setae (hairs) on the head that form a‘cage’ extending forward.The hairy sand peanut is an unusual member of this familythat lacks the ‘cage’ or a mucous casing. When observedcarefully in the water, these worms will extend the pairedfeeding palps (see inset above) showing their relationshipwith the Canalipalpata (spaghetti worms, spionid worms,feather dusters, etc.).32

Thelepus spp. – Spaghetti wormsCommon under rocks in mud tubes. The flesh colored buccal tentaclesare distinct. Most of these abundant worms require dissection to id.Cistenides granulata – Ice cream cone wormThe tusk-shaped tube of this worm is commonly encountered in theintertidal zone. Prefers sand around rocks. Formerly Pectinaria granulataEupolymnia heterobranchiata – Parchment tube spaghetti wormThe papery tubes of this species are covered in gravel and shell. Tubesattached under rocks. Body green. Tree-like gills, 1 pair short, 1 pair long.The spaghetti wormsVery common but easily missed in a wide variety of habitats,spaghetti worms include four families in our area. The mostcommon family, the Terebellidae, give the group its commonname because of the tangled mass of buccal (“mouth”)tentacles. The buccal tentacles extend out over the surfaceand capture prey items or organic particles that are thentransported to the mouth.Most spaghetti worms and their relatives are difficult toidentify in the field. Microscopic examination of their gills,parapodia, and setae (hairs) is often required. The twospecies shown above are intended only to represent thefamily, and may not be the most commonly encounteredspecies in some areas.33

Cirratulus sp. – Filament wormsCommon under rocks in mud tubes. Resemble the related spaghettiworms, but have filaments (gills) running down entire body.Chaetozone sp. – Spiny filament wormsUnlike Cirratulus spp., the body segments of these worms (not shown)each have a ring of setae so their back half is accordion-like.Neosabellaria cementarium – Stone mason wormThe hard tubes of this species are often attached to shells. The tubesresemble concrete. Closely related to the feather duster worms.Owenia sp. – Thread tubewormsThe specific identity of this common intertidal worm has not 34 beendetermined. Forms tangled mats of tubes in sand.

Schizobranchia insignis – Split branch feather duster wormFound intertidally among rocks. Tube, like the following species, is flexibleand leathery (typical of Family Sabellidae). Radioles branched.Myxicola infundibulum – Slime tube feather duster wormFound in rock crevices, this unusual worm lives in a tube of transparentslime. The radioles are connected together forming a funnel.The Feather Duster wormsTwo closely related families are collectively known as featherduster worms. The species on this page are in the familySabellidae and typically have a tube composed of flexibleproteins. The other family, Serpulidae, always have a tubecomposed of calcareous (shell-like) material.The feeding tentacles of feather duster worms are calledradioles. The radioles are typically extended into the watercolumn and trap planktonic organisms which are transportedto the mouth. Feather duster worms are difficult to positivelyidentify in the field and often require dissection of theirmicrostructures to determine species.Eudistyla vancouveri – Vancouver feather duster wormThis large (diameter of crown often 5 cm, 2”, or more) is common onfloating docks. Green and red radioles typical, but variable.35

Serpula columbiana – Calcareous tube wormCommon low intertidal and subtidal species. Tubes often growing intangled masses. Formerly known as Serpula vermicularis.Crucigera zygophora – Yoke-bearing calcareous tube wormUsually solitary, this tubeworm has thinner and fewer radioles than seen inthe more common Serpula columbiana. Radioles often bright red at base.Pseudochitinopoma occidentalis – Western serpulidA tiny (3 cm or 1.25”) species that forms thread-like tubes on rocks andshells. The shell has a dorsal keel that is distinct.Paradexiospira vitrea – Glassy dwarf tubewormRepresentative of the family Spiorbidae. Species are difficult to 36 field id –best to leave at family. All with small spiral shells ~5 mm in diameter.

Family Enchytraeidae – Aquatic oligochaetesOligochaetes are the group that includes the common earthworm. Thisfamily is one of the more common in our area, difficult to id.Notostomobella cyclostoma – Striped sea leechThis marine leech is parasitic on sharks and rays, but most often seen onlarge crabs where it lays its eggs. Does not appear to feed on the crabs.Echiurus sitkaensis – Alaskan spoonwormSpoonworms are generally placed in the phylum Echiura, which mayeventually be placed within the annelids based upon genetics.Phascolosoma agassizii – Peanut wormThe peanut worms belong to a small phylum called the Sipunculida. 37These worms have a tough skin and a long retractable neck.

Leptochiton rugatus – Dwarf white chitonSmall, rarely over 1 cm (0.4”) in length. White plates and girdle, often withrusty covering. Found under rocks partially buried in sediment.Cyanoplax dentiens – Gould’s baby chitonMost often found on the outer coast. Lives in the upper intertidal zoneamong barnacles and limpets. Often with black and white spotted girdle.The Chitons – Phylum Mollusca,Class PolyplacophoraChitons, locally known as gumboots, are primitive molluskscharacterized by eight separate shell (called plates)surrounded by a tough band of tissue called the girdle.Like snails, chitons feed by scraping organisms off of thesubstrate with a file-like tongue called the radula. The radularteeth of a chiton are composed of iron as the they must bedurable.There are over 50 species of chiton found in Alaska, with 18of these being common intertidal species.Cyanoplax fernaldi – Fernald’s baby chitonA small (under 1 cm) chiton, this species is found in the upper intertidalzone among mussels and barnacles. Plates often eroded.38

Tonicella lineata – Red lined chitonOne of the most common intertidal chitons, the pattern of lines on theplates are distinct. Color often obscured by algal growth.Tonicella undocaerulea – Blue lined chitonFound on the outer coast, the blue lined chiton nearly always has brightblue zigzag lines. Like most of the genus, feeds on pink coralline algae.Tonicella venusta – Lovely chitonFound primarily on the outer coast, the lovely chiton is often mistaken forjuveniles of other lined chitons. White stripes on girdle are distinct.Tonicella insignis – White lined chitonCommon in the low intertidal and subtidal. The fine white lines 39 on redbackground of plates is distinct. Girdle often with green spots.

Schizoplax brandtii – Split-plate chitonCommon in Juneau, this species has split down the center of each plate.Plates often dark blue-gray. Girdle typically black and white spotted.Tripoplax trifidus – Three-ribbed scale chitonRecognized by the three broad ribs radiating outward from the center ofplates 2-7. Orange to brown colored plates. Girdle with snake-like scales.Boreochiton beringensis – Northern red chitonFound in the lowest intertidal and subtidal. Plates mottled red, green, orblue and girdle often mottled dull pink and white.Plates, radula, and girdleScientists that study chitons rely on a complex combination ofplate, girdle, and radula features to classify them into families,genera, and species. Increasingly, genetics has become animportant tool for resolving the relationships between chitonspecies as well as higher level classification.The radula (scraping tongue) of chitons is a cartilaginousband that bears many rows of metal-infused teeth. Thespecific shape and number of these teeth has been used todemonstrate the uniqueness of a proposed new species. Theradula of the gumboot chiton (left) is large and easy to find bycarefully cutting between the head and foot on the underside.The radula can be examined under magnification to see therows of teeth.40

Tripoplax abyssicola – Abyssal scale chitonThis common but rarely seen species is usually found below 200 meters(650 feet) attached to sponges or barnacles snagged by longline gear.Lepidozona mertensii – Merten’s scale chitonUsually found on the outer coast. Color typically brown, but violetspecimens are common in Sitka. Girdle with snake-like scales.The Scale chitonsThis group of chitons are united by having their girdlescovered with rows of scales. Under a microscope thesescales resemble the overlapping scales as seen on snakesand lizards. Like most chitons, scale chitons feed onencrusting bryozoans, sponges, and algae.This family, the Ischnochitonidae, is quite diverse. There aremany other Alaskan species not shown here. Identification ofthese can be difficult as the key features are typically thepatterns of ridges, pits, etc. on the plates. Like many chitons,color is generally not a good character as the plate and girdlecoloration can be extremely variable.Lepidozona interstincta – Smooth scale chitonUsually shallow subtidal, often on empty clamshells. Color highly variable.Plates appear smooth. Girdle with snake-like scales.41

Lepidozona retiporosa – Little scale chitonThis subtidal species can be recognized by the rows of fine pits on thecentral area of the plates. Small and easily overlooked species on rock walls.Katherina tunicata – Black katy chiton or gumbootCommon species often harvested for food. Shiny black girdle covers allbut the center of the plates. Important subsistence species.Cryptochiton stelleri – Giant chitonThe world’s largest chiton, reaching 35 cm (14”) or more. Low intertidaland subtidal. Plates completely covered by girdle.Dendrochiton flectens – Painted chitonFound in the low intertidal, this variable species can be recognized by the4-6 thick hairs on the posterior end of otherwise smooth girdle

Mopalia kennerleyi – Northern hairy chitonCommon, found in the same habitats as the gumboot chiton. Girdle hairywith a distinct notch on posterior end.Mopalia ferreirai – Ferreira’s hairy chitonLow intertidal on outer coast. Similar to the closely related spectacularhairy chiton. The girdle hairs are thicker and girdle usually lacking stripes.Mopalia spectabilis – Spectacular hairy chitonUsually found on the outer coast. The girdle hairs are moss-like. Platesoften with turquoise flecks and lines. Girdle commonly striped.The Hairy chitonsMembers of the genus Mopalia are collectively known as thehairy or mossy chitons. As the name suggests, most of thesehave a girdle covered in hairs. The hairs may be thick or fine,sparse or very dense, depending upon the species. Thesechitons feed on a large variety of sessile invertebrates. Theclosely related Veiled chitons are actually predators on mobileanimals such as shrimps and amphipods!The Northern hairy chiton (upper left) is our most commonlyencountered species. This species used to be known as M.ciliata until that species was split into northern and southerngroups. The northern group was renamed M. kennerlyi. Thischange was fairly recent so the old name is commonly seenin field guides.43

Mopalia lignosa – Woody chitonRestricted to outer coast. Girdle hairs sparse, girdle often spotted.Feather-like pattern on plates typical, background color green to white.Mopalia hindsii – Hind’s hairy chitonA large outer coast species, these sometimes have nearly black plates.The “basket-weave” pattern on the plate margins is distinctive.Mopalia vespertina – Smooth hairy chitonThe nearly smooth plates and sparse, fine girdle hairs are distinct. Theplates are often a shade of green, sometimes with white sections.Mopalia swanii – Swan’s hairy chitonThe girdle hairs of this species are very fine so that the girdle 44 appearsnaked. The plates are variable in color, sometimes all orange or white.

Mopalia imporcata – Branched hairy chitonA small species, usually subtidal. Common on empty clamshells. Heavilysculptured plates and finely branched girdle hairs are distinct.Mopalia cirrata – Long-haired hairy chitonSometimes common but easily missed, this small (

Haliotis kamtschatkana – Pinto abaloneFound in the lowest intertidal on the outer coast, this species is the targetfor an important sport fishery. Feeds on large brown algae such as kelp.Cranopsis cucullata – Hooded keyhole limpetCommon but easily missed, this species is usually under 2 cm (3/4”) inlength. The “keyhole” is slit-shaped. Often attached to pebbles or shells.Diodora aspera – Rough keyhole limpetA common low intertidal species. Shell often with alternating black andwhite stripes. Often exceeds 5 cm (2”) in length. Oval “keyhole” on top.The snails and slugs – PhylumMollusca, Class GastropodaThe largest group of mollusks, gastropods are typified by asingle shell. This shell is most often coiled, but may be capshapedas in the limpets or absent as in the terrestrial slugsand marine nudibranchs.Gastropods usually crawl on a large, muscular foot. The headand eyes are usually well-developed. Gastropods exploitmultiple niches, with some being herbivores, othersscavengers and predators. Many species are parasitic. Theopening of most snails is protected by a structure called anoperculum.46

Cranopsis multistriata – Many ribbed keyhole limpetA common intertidal species often found attached to empty clam shells.About twice as many ribs as seen in the hooded keyhole limpet (previous).Puncturella galeata – Helmet keyhole limpetCommon subtidal species with fine ribbing. Apex not ‘hooked’ as inmembers of the genus Cranopsis. Shell often nearly circular in outline.Photo by Paul NorwoodPuncturella noachina – Linne’s keyhole limpetCommon deep water species found on rocks snagged by longline gear. Sidesof shell nearly parallel rather than rounded as in the helmet keyhole limpet.Fissurellidea bimaculata – Two-spotted keyhole limpetAn unusual keyhole limpet, this species has the greatly reduced shellcovered by the fleshy mantle. Low intertidal on exposed outer coast.

Scelidotoma bella – Elegant emarginulaFound in the lowest intertidal and subtidal on the outer coast. This rarekeyhole limpet lacks the characteristic keyhole found in most of the family.Margarites pupillus – Puppet margariteA common mid to low intertidal species. The pink color and regular spirallines are distinct. Like all margarites, the interior is iridescent silver.Margarites marginatus – Smooth margariteThis small ( 1 cm.

Calliostoma ligatum – Blue ringed topsnailCommon on the outer coast. Resembles the margarites, but has a tallerspire. Often a light brown color with light rings and some blue.Calliostoma annulatum – Purple ringed topsnailThis uncommon beauty is usually subtidal. The gold and purple colorationis distinctive. This color unfortunately fades when the shell dries.Cidarina cidaris – Spiny topsnailAlways subtidal, but hermit crabs occasionally bring them into theintertidal. The beaded white or silvery exterior is distinctive.Bathybembix bairdi – Baird’s margariteThis uncommon deep water snail has most often been found by dissecting 49 thestomachs of flatfish such as the Dover sole. Commonly reaching 5 cm.

Lirularia succincta – Tucked topsnailThis small (

Littorina sitkana – Sitka periwinkleAn abundant upper intertidal species found on Fucus and other algae.Variable color and sculpturing. Shell about as tall as wide.Littorina scutalata – Checkered periwinkleAbundant high intertidal species. Variable shell color, often withalternating light and dark rectangles, the source of common name.Littorina plena–Black periwinkleCommon upper intertidal species, found on Fucus and other algae. Solid purpleto black exterior usually has fine spiral ridges, may be eroded or pitted.Lacuna variegata – Variegated lacunaCommon mid to lower intertidal species. Often found on kelps 51 and otherbrown algaes. Shell much thinner than in genus Littorina.

Cryptobranchia concentrica – Ringed blind limpetUsually little more than 1 cm (0.4”), this all white limpet is common onrocks in the lower intertidal zone.Acmaea mitra – White cap limpetAlmost always on pink coralline algae which often grows on the shell, thislimpet had a nearly circular outline and solid white shell with tall apex.Tectura rosacea (?) – Little rose limpetRarely seen but sometimes common, this small (

Lottia scuta – Plate limpetA common upper to mid intertidal species. The large circular or broadlyoval shell is relatively flat. May reach 5 cm (2”) in length or more.Lottia digitalis – Fingered limpetFound in the highest intertidal zone on the outer coast, the heavy ribs andapex nearly reaching front margin of shell are unique features.Lottia paradigitalis – Dwarf ribbed limpetAn abundant species in the upper to mid intertidal zone. Rarely reaching 1cm (0.4”), this limpet is often eroded on top. Shell chalky white inside.The Incredible LimpetsUnlike most snails, limpets have a simple, cap-like shell. Fewother marine species have done so well in the highestintertidal zone as have these interesting snails. Some, like thefingered limpet (left), live high in the splash zone and are onlysubmerged during the highest tides of the year. These rely onmoisture from splashing waves and rainwater to keep theirgills moist and are able to extract oxygen from the air.Limpets can be difficult to identify. Important features are therelative height, length, and width of the shell, the position ofthe apex of the shell (center, toward the anterior end). Theinterior of the shell varies by species as well, may be solidwhite, with an apical brown spot, opaque, etc. Limpets scrapealgae from the rock surface using their radula.53

Lottia instabilis (kelp form) – Unstable limpetThis unusual form is shaped to live attached to the stipes of kelp. This formseems to be less common in SE Alaska than is the rock form of this species.Lottia instabilis (rock form) – Speckled limpetCommon in the low intertidal, this limpet resembles the plate limpet but longerthan wide and lacking dark spot on interior. Formerly L. ochraceous.Lottia pelta (rock form) – Ribbed limpetAn upper intertidal species. Similar to Lottia persona, the shell is thickerand posses faint ribs. Inside of shell with apical brown spot.Lottia pelta (eelgrass form) – Eelgrass limpetRestricted to the outer coast, this species is almost always found on 54 eelgrass(Zostera marina). May be abundant in some areas. Formerly L paralella.

Lottia triangularis – Coralline algae limpetA very small (

Photo by Paul NorwoodAriadnaria insignis - Gray hairysnailCommon subtidal species, under rocks or in gravel. Periostracum verythis and usually missing. Shell thicker and stouter than A. borealis.Melanella micans - Shining balcisSimilar to the cucumber sucker (below), the shining balcis is distinguished byhaving a straight spire. Parasitic on echinoderms, especially sea cucumbers.Vitreolina columbiana – Cucumber suckerThese shiny snails are ectoparasites of sea cucumbers in the intertidalzone. Note the bent spire. Usually under 1 cm.Neverita lewisii Lewis’ moonsnailRestricted to the southern portion of Southeastern Alaska, this hugemoonsnail is unmistakable with its 20 cm (8”) foot extended.

Cryptonatica aleutica – Aleutian moonsnailWhile common in the low intertidal, these snails are usually completelyburied. The operculum is calcareous. Related species seen rarely.Velutina plicatilis – Spiral velvet snailCommon low intertidal species. The incised spiral ridges distinguish thisfrom the related smooth velvet snail (next page). On compound tunicates.Euspira pallida – Pale moonsnailCommon subtidal species usually under 4 cm in height. Corneousoperculum. Giant relative, E. lewisii, (>10 cm) found south of Ketchikan.Opercula – the snail’s doorThe majority of gastropods in marine waters have a structureon the back of their foot called an operculum. When the snailwithdraws into its shell, the operculum blocks the opening.This serves to protect the snail from predators and to preventdrying out at low tide.The moonsnails (above) demonstrate two main types ofopercula seen in gastropods. Members of the genusCryptonatica have a calcareous or ‘stony’ operculum that ismade of the same material as the shell. Other moonsnails,such as Euspira, have an operculum made of protein.Proteinaceous or corneous opercula are typical browncolored and somewhat flexible. Most Alaskan marine snailshave corneous rather than calcareous opercula.57

Limneria prolongata – Smooth velvet snailThe smooth velvet snail is common on encrusting organisms in the lowintertidal. The shell lacks the spiral lines seen in V. velutina.Crepidula perforans – Pacific white slipper shellWhile found on a variety of substrates, this species is most common onthe inside of large snail shells with hermit crabs. Shelf crosses shell.Crepipatella dorsata – Half slipper shellUnlike the Pacific white slipper shell (below left), this species is usuallyfound on rocks in the low intertidal. Shelf inside does not cross shell.Slipper shellsThese limpet-like snails are characterized by a structureinside the shell called the shelf. Unlike limpets, slipper shellsfeed by a method called suspension feeding. Watercontaining plankton or other particles is cycled though thesnail’s mantle cavity and food is trapped by the gills andtransported to the mouth.There are several other species of slipper shell not illustratedhere. One, the hooked slipper shell (Crepidula adunca) isfound on the outside of other snail shells and has a darkbrown shell. Another subtidal species, the shaggy whiteslipper shell (Crepidula nummaria) has a tattered yellowperiostracum and is found on rocks, dead shells, etc.58

Epitonium indianorum – Money wentletrapWhile empty shells are sometimes common in the intertidal, the live snailis rarely seen. Spire is over two times taller than wide.Boreoscala greenlandica – Greenland wentletrapSpiral sculpture in between the varices are a unique feature of this rarespecies. Found buried in sand and gravel in the low intertidal.Epitonium tinctum – Tinted wentletrapLook for these in sand around outer coast sea anemones. Spire is shorterthan the money wentletrap, less than two times taller than wide.Wentletraps – The Staircase SnailsFrom the Dutch word for “staircase” the common name of thisfamily of snails comes from the regularly spaced varices onthe shell of most species that reminded early shell collectorsof a spiral staircase. This family is extremely diverse, withhundreds of species found mainly in the tropics.Wentletraps are nearly all predators of sea anemones. Theywill use their mouthparts to pierce the skin of an anemoneand feed off of the body fluids. The best way to find thesesnails is to look for the empty shells being used as hermitcrab homes. To find live snails, the patient searcher willcarefully dig around the sand and gravel at the bases of seaanemones.59

Opalia borealis – Boreal wentletrapA predator of the giant green sea anemone, this outer coast species hasrelatively low varices that are fewer and less distinct than in other speciesOlivella baetica – Baetic olive snailUsually smaller than the purple olive snail (

Granulina margaritula – Pear marginellaLook for these tiny (

Nucella lamellosa – Frilled dogwinkleAbundant mid to upper intertidal species on the outer coast, insidepopulations most often low intertidal or shallow subtidal. Highly variable.Nucella ostrina – Dwarf dogwinkleMost often seen on the outer coast. The small (2 cm, 0.8”) shell is highlyvariable in color. Formerly Nucella emarginata.The Murex SnailsThis very large family of predatory snails has both tropicaland cold water representatives. Unlike many of the betterknowntropical species in this family, most of ours lack theelaborate varices or long spines that typify this group.This family includes the common dogwinkles in our region aswell as the lesser known trophons and rocksnails. Many localspecies are predators of barnacles and mussels and arecommonly found in areas with their prey items. Most murexesare capable of drilling holes into the shells of their prey, whichis the source of the common name ‘oyster drills’ given tosome members of this family.Nucella canaliculata – Channeled dogwinkleResemples Nucella lima, but has a thicker shell and more regular andmore deeply incised lines. Distribution sporadic. Variable coloration.62

Nucella lima – File dogwinkleCommon intertidal species in Juneau. Ribs not as well defined as inNucella canaliculata. Variable color and sculpturing.Ceratostoma foliatum – Leafy hornmouthA common species on the outer coast, the aperture of this species has acharacteristic sharp pointed tooth used to open barnacles. Variable color.Ocinebrina lurida – Lurid rocksnailCommon low intertidal species on the outer coast. Color is distinct, solidlight orange to dark red. Spiral sculpture strong, varices weak to absent.Ocinebrina interfossa – Sculptured rocksnailLocally common on the outer coast. The varices in this species 63 are strong,as is spiral sculpture. Usually solid light gray to light purple color.

Ocinebrina sclera – Rough rocksnailAnother common species on the outer coast. The varices are rounded andthe spiral sculpture with small spines. Shell with brown or red flecks.Nipponotrophon stuarti – Stuart’s trophonA large and beautiful species, this is most often subtidal but juveniles aresometimes intertidal. Crabbed specimens not uncommon in some areas.Boreotrophon multicostatus – Many-ribbed trophonCommon in some places, this trophon has a patchy distribution. Exteriorof shell white, interior often purple.Boreotrophon pacificus – Pacific trophonRarely found in the low intertidal, this species is usually found 64 on andaround piles of small cobble . Varices rounded on shoulder are distinct.

Boreotrophon alaskanus – Alaskan trophonThis deep water species is occasionally found in crab and shrimp pots.Varices with sharp shoulder and siphonal canal very long. Shell white.Nodulotrophon coronatus – Crown trophonResembles the Alaskan trophon, but varices not prominent except at shoulder.Rarely seen, may get into crab and shrimp traps set in deep water.Trophopsis orpheus – Threaded trophonCommon subtidal species, rarely hermit crabs will bring shells intointertidal zone. Spiral sculpture and shoulder spines are distinctScabrotrophon maltzani – Sandpaper trophonRarely intertidal, common in the shallow subtidal. The very long siphonalcanal is distinct. Sculpturing variable, and related species may occur.

Arctomelon stearnsi – Arctic voluteThe Arctic volute is a member of a typically tropical family. Shell is chalkygray with a purple-brown interior. Common in deep water crab traps.Volutomitra alaskana – Alaskan false miterSimilar to the Arctic volute, this species is smaller and has a light brown totan shell. Interior peach to light pink with four axial folds.Volutharpa ampullacea – Paper whelkA common intertidal species that is often missed. These are usually buriedin sediment under and around rocks. Egg capsules are conspicuous.Lirabuccinum dirum – Dire whelkA very common species in the upper to mid intertidal of the outer 66 coast.Exterior usually gray, interior chocolate brown with fine dark lines.

Buccinum baeri – Baer’s whelkA common species that is often missed. Buried in sand under midintertidal rocks. May be in large groups. Small operculum is distinct.Buccinum plectrum – Sinuous whelkUsually subtidal, but empty shells are often seen. Attracted to crab andshrimp pots. Wavy ribbing on shell restricted to upper half of whorl.The Whelks – Family BuccinidaeThe buccinids are a family of snails that often numericallydominate arctic and temperate waters. This family includes anumber of small common intertidal species as well as thelargest shelled mollusks found in Alaska. Most buccinids arepredators and scavengers, and many are considered pests incrab and shrimp pots as they climb in to eat the bait.In addition to the species shown in this guide there are manyothers that are not as commonly seen but may beencountered. Many of these are subtidal and rare. Thetaxonomy of this group is confusing, and new species areregularly being discovered.Buccinum scalariforme – Silky whelkUsually deeper than the sinuous whelk, this species is smaller and has finewavy ribs on entire whorl. Common in deep water crab and shrimp pots.67

Buccinum morchianum – Pacific northern whelkAnother species only rarely encountered in the intertidal. The fine spirallines and knobbed spiral ribs are distinct.Beringius kennicotti – Kennicott’s whelkUsually subtidal, juveniles sometimes intertidal. The massive ribs andflaky brown periostracum are distinct. Common in crab and shrimp traps.Neptunea lyrata – Ribbed neptuneOften confused with the unnamed Neptunea sp. (right). This species haslow spiral cords with smaller cords in between. Aperture often dark.Neptunea sp. (undescribed) – Willet’s neptuneA common species that has yet to be scientifically named. The darkercolored spiral cords without smaller cords in between are distinct.

Neptunea pribiloffensis – Fat neptuneMuch thinner shell and more inflated than other Neptunea. Spiral cordsweak. Abundant subtidal species, shells common in intertidal drift.Neptunea amianta – White neptuneAn abundant deep water species common in crab and shrimp traps. Similarto the fat neptune, the chalky white shell with fine ribbing is distinct.The Neptune SnailsThese very large snails are usually found subtidally, but it isnot uncommon to find the shells washed ashore or beingused by our largest hermit crabs. Two common species(Neptunea sp. undescribed and Neptunea pribiloffensis) mayoccasionally exceed 15 cm (6”) in length.Some neptunes deposit their egg capsules in tall columns,while others deposit in flats rows. The egg capsules areoccasionally washed ashore or brought up by fishing gear.The capsules are typically yellow when alive, transparentwhen embryos have hatched. Sometimes the capsules willcontain tiny snails, complete with little shell!Neptunea phoenicia (N. ithia?) – Phoenician neptuneThe narrow shell and very fine spiral ribs are distinct. Rarely intertidal(only in Petersburg area), often found in deep water crab and shrimp pots.69

Colus halli – Hall’s whelkRarely intertidal, often caught in shallow water (

Amphissa columbiana – Wrinkled dove snailThis common snail is highly variable in color, ranging from yellow to darkbrown, often with striking markings on shell. Mostly scavengers.Amphissa versicolor - Variable dove snailCommon on the outer coast in the lowest tide zone. Shell is stouter andribbing more prominent . Like the wrinkled dove snail, color is highly variable.Alia carinata – Keeled dove snailA very common intertidal snail on the outer coast. Often abundant ineelgrass beds. Strong keel is distinct. Rarely over 1 cm in height.Kurtziella crebicostatus – Violet band mangeliaSieving sand in the lowest intertidal zone may reveal this small 71 (

Cone Shells in Alaska?The turrids, including the snakeskin turrid to the left and theviolet band mangelia on the previous page are members ofthe superfamily Conoidea. This family includes the famouscone shells of the tropics. Like cone shells, turrids have aradula that is used as a harpoon to deliver a powerful toxin totheir prey. Some cone shells can deliver a painful or evenfatal sting to humans unlucky enough to pick them up by thewrong end. Ours are completely harmless except to theunlucky worms they encounter.There are several dozen members of the turrid family found inthe Northeastern Pacific. I have included two commonspecies, but several others may be found by careful sieving oflow intertidal and subtidal sediments.Ophiodermella inermis – Snakeskin turridWhen the tide begins coming in, look for this species in eelgrass beds asthey emerge from the sediment. Tall spire and fine spiral lines are distinct.Photo by David CowlesActeocina culcitella – Western barrel bubble shellThe narrow shape of this small (

Elysia hedgpethi – Hedgpeth’s sea hareThis tiny sea hare is closely associated with the green algae Codiumfragile on the outer coast. Dark green color with iridescent spots is distinct.Onchidoris bilamellata – Barnacle eating nudibranchVery common under rocks in the mid intertidal zone. Brown and yellowmottling is distinctive. Usually under 3 cm (1.2”).Dorid NudibranchsThe dorid nudibranchs (superfamily Doridoidea) are a diversegroup that is characterized by an oval, usually firm roundedbody covered in abundant, short papillae. Many dorids arespecialized feeders on sponges, bryozoans, and colonialtunicates.This group is probably the most often encountered group ofnudibranchs in the intertidal zone. Many species are easy toidentify based on color pattern. The body color, presence orabsence of spots, pattern of coloration on papillae or bodymargin, etc. are good field characters.Onchidoris muricata – Fuzzy dorisThis very small, white dorid is almost always found on the blades of large kelpswhere it feeds on encrusting bryozoans. Resembles prey item in texture.73

Montereina nobilis – Sea lemon nudibranchA large species (to 15 cm, 6”). Yellow color with brown and black dotsdistinctive. Low intertidal and subtidal. Formerly Peltodoris nobilis.Hallaxa chani – Chan’s dorisThis variable species ranges in color from nearly transparent white tobright yellow. Skin covered with large, irregular translucent ‘warts’Photo by Paul NorwoodAcanthodoris nanaimoensis – Nanaimo spiny dorisThe cream to yellow tipped papillae with maroon gills and rhinophores aredistinct features. Low intertidal and subtidal.Acanthodoris pilosus – Hairy spiny dorisCommon but easily missed. Under rocks in the low intertidal zone. Somepopulations are white. Sharp pointed papillae distinct.

Adalaria spp. – Tiny white doridsSearching carefully under rocks may reveal this small (< 1 cm) dorid thatlives on bryozoans. Group difficult to identify to species.Dialula sandiegensis – Leopard nudibranchCommon in the low intertidal. Always with brown spots, but number ofspots and background color variable, from white to brownCadlina luteomarginata – Yellow rimmed dorisSometimes common in the lowest intertidal, the yellow spots on the shortpapillae and yellow margin of body are distinct features.Rostanga pulchra – Red sponge dorisThis dorid almost perfectly matches the red sponge upon which 75 it lives andfeeds. Usually less than 2 cm in length, on multiple species of red sponge.

Aegires albopunctatus – Salt and pepper nudibranchUsually subtidal, this uncommon dorid cannot be confused with any otherspecies with its long papillae and white color with dark spots.Photo by Paul NorwoodTochiuna tetraquetra – Orange peel nudibranchOne of the largest sea slugs in the world, reaching 50 cm (20”) in length! Oftenfound around sea pens, which are its preferred food. Also feeds on corals.Triopha catalinae – Clown nudibranchA common nudibranch, the (usually!) solid white body with orange tipped gills,papillae, and rhinophores is unique. Dark individuals sometimes common.Naked gills and rhinophoresThe term nudibranch literally means “naked gills”. This refersto the fact that, unlike most gastropods, the gills ofnudibranchs are not contained in the mantle cavity. In themajority of species, the gills are feathery structures in a ringthat extend from the posterior portion of the dorsum (back).The rhinophores (“nose bearing”) of nudibranchs are clublikestructures on the head that detect chemicals in the water. Thechemicals may be from predators, prey, or potential mates.Both the gills and the rhinophores of nudibranchs can bewithdrawn into the body, so are usually seen only when theanimal is underwater.76

Photo by Paul NorwoodTritonia diomedea – Pink tritoniaThis large sea slug is common in the shallow subtidal. The pale to brightpink color is distinct. Feed mainly on sea pens in sandy or muddy areas.Photo by Paul NorwoodTritonia festivus – Festive tritoniaThe fine white patterns on the back of this beautiful species make itimmediately recognizable. Found in rocky areas where it feeds on soft corals.Photo by Paul NorwoodDendronotus iris – Giant nudibranchThis impressive species can reach 30 cm (1’) in length. They are capable ofswimming through the water column. Feed on burrowing sea anemones.Dendronotus venustus – Beautiful dendronotidThis common coastal species feeds on hydroids in the intertidal and shallowsubtidal. Usually mottled shades of red and brown. Formerly D. frondosus.

Photo by David CowlesDendronotus rufus – Red dendronotidMost often subtidal, the spectacular dendronotids commonly exceed 15cm in length. Several species occur in southeastern Alaska.Melibe leonina – Hooded nudibranchThis bizarre species does not resemble a nudibranch at first glance.Strong swimmers. Sometimes abundant in eelgrass beds when spawning.Dirona albolineata – Frosted nudibranchWhen exposed by the tide, this species looks like a blob of jelly.Underwater the beautiful white-fringed cerata extend.Aeolidia papillosa – Shag rug nudibranchCommon in the low intertidal and on floating docks. This nudibranch 78 feedson sea anemones. Color variable, from light brown to purple.

Hermissenda crassicornis – Opalescent nudibranchThis beautiful nudibranch can often be seen in the low intertidal on largebrown algae where it feeds on hydroids. Color pattern distinct.Flabellina verrucosa – Red flabellinaCommon on the outer coast, this is one of many similar species ofFlabellina found in Alaska. Species difficult to separate.Eolids – Armed to the CerataThis group of nudibranchs, the Eolids (including the frostedand shag rug nudibranchs from the previous page) have aunique defense mechanism. When they feed on seaanemones and hydroids, the stinging cells of their prey aretransported to the tips of their cerata without firing. Thesestinging cells are then used to defend the nudibranch frompredators! The cerata of eolids contain elongate extensions oftheir digestive system which allows transport of the stingingcells. The bright colors of this group are a warning to wouldbepredators that these soft bodied creatures carry a powerfulsting.Janolus fuscus – White and orange tipped nudibranchA beautiful and rarely seen nudibranch in Alaska, this species has distinctbright orange-tipped cerata with a white “cap” on the end.79

Odostomia columbiana – Clam suckerThis tiny (under 5 mm, 0.2”) snail is extremely common but easy to miss.Parasitic on other mollusks. Related to nudibranchs despite coiled shell.Siphonaria theristes – Pacific false limpetResembles true limpets but apex of shell is asymmetrical. Body extendspast shell. Found in the upper Fucus zone, patchy distribution.Onchidella borealis – Leather limpetCommon in the upper intertidal, near the top of the Fucus zone. Related toland snails and slugs. No shell, spiny margins distinct.Life in the high tide zoneSeveral groups of snails, such as the true limpets, leatherlimpets, false limpets, and periwinkles live in the highestportion of the intertidal zone and may only be submergedduring the highest tides. Many of these are capable of limitedgas exchange with the air and use their mantle cavity andgills as a type of lung. Others, such as the true limpets, sealthemselves to the rock to prevent drying out.The unusual leather limpet faces another problem. As arelative of the land snails and slugs (Pulmonata), it has tocope both with drowning if submerged too long and with celldamage due to salt concentration. This species produces athick mucous to protect against salt and can ‘hold its breath’during high tide!80

Acharax johnsoni – Gutless awning clamUsually associated with low oxygen zones, this primitive bivalve has abrown to black periostracum that extends well past the shell margin.Yoldia seminuda – Crisscross yoldiaEasily distinguished by the faint grooves that ‘crisscross’ the growth lines.Like the clams on the next two pages has row of tiny teeth along hingeYoldia hyperborea – Northern yoldiaRarely intertidal, although shells wash up on beach. Commonly found inshallow mud dredgings. Many other Yoldia species present.The bivalves – Phylum Mollusca,Class BivalviaThis common group includes clams, mussels, and scallops aswell as a host of lesser known forms. All are characterized bytwo shells (bivalved) held together by a proteinaceousligament.Important commercial species are included in the Bivalviasuch as scallops, oysters, and the famous geoduc. Bivalveslack a head, unlike most mollusks, and therefore the radulaas well. Most species posses a powerful foot for locomotionor burrowing. Many species can also use the foot to secretestrong fibers called byssal threads. Most of our bivalves canbe easily identified in the field.81

Megayoldia thraeciaformis – Hatchet clamThe largest of Alaska’s yoldia clams. Found in fairly deep water, theyellow periostracum, the inflated shell and hatchet shape are distinct.Megayoldia montereyensis - Monterey yoldiaThis deep water species is much smaller, has a brown periostracum, andlacks the hatchet shape of M. thraeciaformis. Often eaten by flatfish.Nuculana pernula – Common nut clamOne of many in the genus found in the subtidal zone. A common food formany flatfish and found in their stomachs. Abundant in dredgings.Nuculana navisa – Ship nutclamThe very long and curved rostrum combined with strong concentric linesmake this species unmistakable. Strictly subtidal, sometimes very deep.

Nuculana minuta – Minute nutclamAn abundant subtidal species distinguished by the very short, pointedrostrum and strong concetric growth lines. Dredged in muddy areas.Nuculana leonina – Lion nutclamCommon deep water species usually recovered from the stomachs of Doversole caught over 350 meters. Medium length straight rostrum distinct.Malletia pacifica – Pacific malletiaAnother very deep water species often fed on by Dover sole. Smooth ovalshell with pale yellow periostracum distinct. Very fragile shell.Acila castrensis – Tent nut shellThe pearly interior and tent-like radial grooves on exterior are distinct.Common shallow subtidal species found in dredgings.

Ennucula tenuis – Little nut clamAnother subtidal species, this clam is about the same size and shape as acherry pit, but with an iridescent yellow-brown exterior. May be common.Mytilus trossulus – Blue musselAbundant mid-high intertidal species, forms distinct zone. AccumulatesPSP from plankton, considered unsafe to eat in Southeastern AlaskaByssal ThreadsMany bivalves, such as the mussels on this page, arecapable of secreting a tough proteinaceous fiber called byssalthreads. These fibers are secreted by the foot and are a liquidthat immediately hardens on exposure to seawater.The byssal threads serve several purposes. For manyspecies, these threads anchor the animal to the substrate orto other members of the species. The threads may also beused to temporarily bind a potential predator such as a seastar or dogwinkle snail. By dissolving old threads andreattaching, many species can use the threads to slowlymove along the substrate like a slow-motion spider.Mytilus californianus – California musselThis huge mussel commonly reaches 20 cm (8”) or more. Usually foundon rocks with heavy surf. Longitudinal ribs on shell are distinct.84

Modiolus modiolus – Northern horse musselSometimes low intertidal, forms dense subtidal beds. Color and shapehelp separate from Mytilus.Musculus niger – Black musselCommon name due to black patina that forms on outside of shell. Makes‘nest’ of byssal threads. Common species in the shallow subtidal.Musculus discors – Discordant musselLook for this mussel in kelp holdfasts washed ashore where it often occursin groups. The yellow periostracum is distinctive.Patinopecten caurinus – Weathervane scallopA very large (>15 cm or 6” diameter) scallop usually found in the 85 subtidal.Important commercially harvested species in Alaska.

Chlamys hastata – Spiny pink scallopSimilar to C. rubida, the tiny spines on the rays distinguish this species.Usually subtidal, although juveniles may be common in low intertidal.Crassadoma gigantea – Rock scallopThis unusual scallop permanently attaches to the substrate and grows anirregular shape. Lowest intertidal on the outer coast.Chlamys rubida – Smooth pink scallopMore rounded shape and smooth ribs distinguish this species fromChlamys hastata. Common subtidal species.ScallopsWell known to seafood lovers, this group of bivalves arecharacterized by wing-like extensions around the umbo of theshell. Another unique characteristic of scallops is that, unlikeother bivalves, they have eyes that line the margin of themantle. These eyes can detect predators and there may beseveral dozen on a single scallop. Like mussels, scallops cansecrete byssal threads.When a predator approaches many scallops are capable ofswimming to safety by clapping their shells. This swimming issomewhat haphazard, but often sufficient to move the scallopaway from a sea star predator. The powerful adductor musclethat allows this swimming behavior is also what makes thesebivalves a target for harvesting by humans.86

Photo by Paul NorwoodParvamussium alaskense – Alaska glass scallopA subtidal scallop, this species is frequently found in the stomachs offlatfish. Only scallop with lower valve smooth with raised ribs on inside.Crassostrea gigas – Pacific oysterWhile not native to Alaska, this import from Asia is a fairly importantfarmed species in some areas. Purple markings are distinct.Pododesmus machrochisma – Jingle shellA common low intertidal and subtidal species. Flat shell conforms to substrate.Attached valve has a large tear-drop shaped hole . Interior greenishMya truncata – Truncate soft-shelled clamThe most common soft-shelled clam in our area. Sometimes found 87 deadwith siphon skin attached to shell.

Photo by Paul NorwoodMya arenaria – Soft-shelled clamPosterior end more pointed, not flattened as in M. truncata. Locallycommon in sand and mud, may burrow deep.Cryptomya californica – California smoothshell clamThis small (

Hiatella arctica – Nestling clamCommon under low intertidal rocks. Cannot completely draw in siphon.The red-tipped siphons and rectangular shell shape are distinct.Zirfaea pilbryi – Rough piddockBurrows into clays and soft mudstones. Large off-white siphons withbrown to black wart-like pustules. Very difficult to dig out of substrate.Panopea abrupta – Geoduc clamThe largest burrowing clam in the world and an important fishery.Occasionally intertidal, common subtidally in certain areas.Siphons – A Snorkel and a Straw!One characteristic seen in most bivalves are the pairedsiphons that extend from the posterior end. A typical bivalve(such as a clam) that is buried in the sediment is actuallyupside-down, with the anterior end pointing down and theposterior end toward the sediment surface.In most bivalves the siphons are fused into a single structurewith two internal tubes. Some groups, like the tellins andmacomas on the next pages, have the two siphons separate.One is typically for drawing in water (incurrent siphon) andthe other for expelling water (excurrent siphon). The incurrentsiphon brings in water containing both oxygen and plankton(food). Oxygen depleted water containing organic waste isexpelled through the excurrent siphon.89

Bankia setacea – ShipwormThe calcareous burrows of these bivalves are often seen in driftwood. Theworm-like body has a small pair of shells used for excavating wood.Angulus modesta – Plain tellinThe small (

Macoma nasuta - Bent-nosed macomaPosterior of shell distinctly bent in profile. Abundant species. Like manymacomas, often buried deep in anoxic (black) mud.Macoma balthica –Baltic macomaAbundant throughout the northern hemisphere. Small species (< 2 cm),shell often pink but sometimes white or yellow. Tolerant of fresh water.Macoma inquinata – Stained macomaSimilar to M. nasuata, but lacks bend on posterior portion of shell. Shelloften rust stained. Abundant species.The Tellins and Macoma clamsThis family of bivalves are common on most beaches buttypically only seen as empty shells cast ashore. Many of theMacoma species tend to have a chalky shell while tellinshave a glossy shell. All members of the family arecharacterized by very flat valves.Unlike most bivalves, tellins and macomas have theirincurrent and excurrent siphons separated. The long white,worm-like siphons of macomas are sometimes seen by clamdiggers. Macomas are often found deep in the sediment,typically in the black, anoxic layers. They will have theirsiphons extending into the burrows of larger clams,spoonworms, mudshrimps, etc. to get a constant supply ofsurface water.91

Clinocardium nuttallii – Heart cockleCommon low intertidal species, often not buried. Commonly exceeds 10cm in length. Displays escape response to sea stars.Serripes laperousi – Broad smooth cockleSimilar to the Greenland smooth cockle, the shell is more elongate. Shellwith an adherent yellow periostracum. Interior of shell pale yellow.Serripes groenlandica – Greenland smooth cockleJuveniles are brightly colored, but adults become dull gray and lose thetent-markings. Rarely intertidal.The Versatile Bivalve FootThe majority of bivalves have a muscular foot on the anteriorend of the body. While typically used for digging, the footserves a variety of functions. Members of the familyCardiidae, the cockles, have a very large and powerful footthat they use to vault themselves over the sediment surface.Each flip can move the cockle many times farther than thelength of the shell! This response is best seen in thepresence of a sea star, but will sometimes do this when thetide turns.As discussed before, bivalves such as mussels and scallopshave a greatly reduced foot that is useless for digging butinstead can secrete the tough byssal threads used to anchorto the substrate.92

Gari californica – California sunset clamThe oval valves of this species are sometimes common in the drift line, butliving clams are rarely encountered. Shell shape with pink rays distinct.Semele rubropicta – Rose painted clamAnother species rarely seen alive but common as empty valves. Found inthe same areas as Gari californica (left), the valves are much rounder.Siliqua patula – Pacific razor clamFound only on outer coast high-energy sandy beaches. A much soughtafterfood item, these clams are famous for their digging speed.Axinospida serricata – Tiny sulfer minerTiny, under 1 cm (0.4”) clams that may mine sulfer to feed 93 internalbacterial colonies, as has been documented in related species.

Turtonia minuta – Minute venus clamCarefully searching coralline algae covered rocks on the outer coast mayreveal this tiny (2-4 mm) bivalve nestled among the branches.Astarte elliptica – Elliptical astarteA common subtidal species characterized by a brown periostracum andmassive concentric (growth) lines separated by deep grooves.Astarte esquimalti – Wavy line astarteAnother common subtidal species, this species is similar to the ellipticalastarte but has finer concentric lines that curve down in the center region.Protothaca staminea – Steamer or littleneck clamThe equally-sized concentric and radial lines identify this species 94 fromjuveniles of Saxidomus.

Compsomyax subdiaphana – Milky venus clamUsually subtidal, this clam resembles a butterclam but has a much thinnerand more inflated shell. Shell often with adherent sand grains.Humilaria kennerleyi – Kennerley’s venusVery similar to a butterclam, the shell of this species is extremely thickand has very strong concentric growth lines. Inner lip with fine teeth.Saxidomus giganteus – Butter clamAbundant species. Accumulates and stores PSP, so not recommended forharvesting in our region. Only fine concentric lines.Paralytic Shellfish PoisoningMost Alaskan bivalves are occasionally rendered toxic byparalytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), sometimes called “redtide”. The toxin (called Saxitoxin) comes from blooms of adinoflagellate algae called Alexandrium catenella. Thebivalves feed on the algae and the toxin may be sequesteredin the tissue of the clam.Some bivalves, such as the butterclams (above) not onlystore the toxin deliberately but alter the chemical to make iteven more toxic. Butterclams and mussels can retain a toxiclevel of saxitoxin for a year or more after an algae bloom. Theonly safety guarantee is to eat clams that have been recentlytested, something not possible on most of Alaska’s beaches.95

Pandora bilirata – Two ridged pandoraExclusively subtidal, this very flat bivalve has two distinct ridges on the uppervalve. Also, these have a less pronounced “beak” than the threaded pandora.Pandora filosa – Threaded pandoraLike all pandora clams, the lower valve is flat or even concave. Uppervalve with an elongate “beak” on the posterior end. Always subtidal.Entodesma navicula – Northwest ugly clamCommon in low intertidal rocky areas. The thick periostracum will contractwhen dried, causing the shell to catastrophically shatter.Lyonsia californica - California lyonsiaThe fragile, pearly shell with thin sandy periostracum is distinct. 96 Found inthe lowest intertidal and subtidally, common in eelgrass beds.

Photo by: Southern California Coastal Water ResearchAntalis pretiosum – Indian tuskshell or DentaliaThese unusual mollusks are exclusively subtidal. The shells are oftenseen in Tlingit, Tsimshian, and Haida beadwork and regalia.Enteroctopus dofleini – Giant Pacific octopusWhile adults are nearly always subtidal, juveniles may be found in the lowintertidal. Largest octopus in the world, commonly exceeding 2 meters.Tuskshells and CephalopodsTwo mollusk classes not normally encountered by the casualbeach explorer are the Scaphopoda or tuskshells and theCephalopoda (octopuses and squids).Scaphopods, called tuskshells or dentalia, are deeper waterpredators of other burrowing invertebrates. The shells aretusk-shaped and nearly always white. Antalis pretiosum washarvested by First Nation peoples and used for beadwork andtraded inland (at least as far as the Mississippi River!)Cephalopods are generally few in species but well known tomost people. Octopus are highly intelligent predators of theocean bottom. Squid and relatives tend to be open water(pelagic) and often form large schools. Cephalopods aremasters of color change.97

Berryteuthis magister – Magister armhook squidThis large squid is occasionally caught on hook and line gear, and is aprominent bycatch in the trawl fishery. Bright red when fresh.Onykia robusta – Robust clubhook squidThe third largest squid in the world, this species reaches a mantle (“tube”)length of 1.6 m , 5 feet). Sometimes washes ashore on beaches.Photo by Jennifer Vanderhoofhttp://green2.kingcounty.gov/marine/PhotoOctopoteuthis deletron – Octopus squidThe huge rounded fins make this species immediately recognizable. Unlikemost squid, the adults lack tentacles and have eight short arms.Rossia pacifica – North Pacific bobtail squidThe stubby or bob-tailed squids are related to the tropical cuttlefishes andare not true squids. This nocturnal species burrows in sand during the day.

Membranipora serrilamella – Kelp bryozoanAbundant as white crust on large brown algae (kelps). Often found in drift.Colonies begin in a circular shape, then become irregular.Membranipora fusca (?)– Orange crust bryozoanFound on lower intertidal rocks, this bryozoan can be abundant. Livingportions of the colony are orange, dead portions white.The Moss animals – Phylum BryozoaThese hydroid or coral-like animals are always colonial. Whilethey resemble colonial cnidarians, these tiny creaturesposses a lophophore similar to that of the brachiopods. It isthought that bryozoans, along with brachiopods, mollusks,ribbon worms, and annelids (along with a few smaller phyla)form a natural group called the Lophotrochozoa.This is an extremely diverse group, and difficult to identifyeven in the lab. Proper id’s often require examination byspecialists. There are a few species in our region that can beidentified by color, shape, or habitat.Dendrobeania lichenoides – Lichen bryozoanDistinguished by the flexible, fan-shaped lobes that are not attached to therock around their margins. Very common low intertidal species.99

Dendrobeania murrayana – Fan bryozoanCommon subtidal species. The flat tan or brown branches that aretruncate at ends are distinct. Colony resembles seaweed and is flexible.Crisia sp. – White tuft bryozoanThis delicate branching bryozoan is common in the low intertidal.Resembles some hydroids, white to cream color distinct.Flustrellidra corniculata – Spiny leather bryozoanYoung colonies often on coralline algae , larger colonies encrusting onrocks in the low intertidal on exposed portions of the outer coast.Alcyonidium pedunculatum – Smooth leather bryozoanA strange bryozoan found in the subtidal. Zoids embedded 100 in a firmssemi-transparent gelatinous matrix. Zoids small and light colored.

Stomachetosella cruenta – Red hardhat bryozoanForms dark red to maroon hard patches on the undersides of low intertidalrocks. Zooids hexagonal and orifice round.Eurystomella bilabiata – Derby hat bryozoanForms dark pink to maroon hard patches on the undersides of low intertidalrocks. Oriface shaped somewhat like the profile of a derby hat (see inset).Electra crustulenta arctica – Hard crust bryozoanForms raised, hard irregular patches on rocks in the low intertidal zone.Opening with single tooth (see inset) visible with magnification.Primavalens insculptata – Fluted bryozoanSometimes abundant on the outer coast, the fluted bryozoan101forms largebrittle colonies on the sides of boulders. The yellow margin is distinct.

Lichenopora spp. – Tube bryozoanA large, complex genus of bryozoans characterized by raised, tube-likezoids. Low intertidal to deep subtidal on hard structures.Patellina verrucaria – Coral bryozoanThe distinct cup-like surface with raised margin makes this small (under 1 cm)bryozoan. Low intertidal to deep subtidal, under rocks or on corals and sponges.Disporella separata – Purple encrusting bryozoanThis beautiful violet bryozoan looks similar to encrusting hydrocorals.These are found in the low subtidal on the outer coast on rocks.Heteropora pacifica – Pacific staghorn brryozoanUsually subtidal, this species is occasionally seen in the low intertidal. 102 Theyellow branches fork repeatedly as the colony grows.

Terebratalia transversa – Common lamp shellThis is the only species that is regularly encountered in the intertidal zone,and then usually on outer coast. Common subtidal species.Hemithyris psittactea – Black lamp shellRarely intertidal, this species may be common in the shallow subtidal. Thedark gray shell is distinctive.Laqueus californiensis – California lamp shellExclusively subtidal, this species is often found attached to sponges,corals, or derelict fishing gear. Smooth shell distinct.Lampshells – Phylum BrachiopodaThese ancient animals were formerly the dominantsuspension feeders in the Paleozoic oceans. Thousands ofextinct species are known, while there are only 200 or soliving forms.Like bryozoans, these feed with a specialized structure calledthe lophophore. Brachiopods attach to the substrate using afleshy stalk called the peduncle. They can move their shellwith the peduncle, but cannot reattach to the substrate. Mostspecies in our region are subtidal, but occasionally found atthe lowest tides. Careful searching of recovered corals andsponges (such as those caught by fishing gear) may revealseveral species of brachiopod.103

Neomolgus littoralis – Red velvet miteAbundant in the intertidal zone, the bright red color distinguishes thisspecies from other intertidal mites. Usually under 3 mm (0.12”)Photo by Paul NorwoodPhoxichilidium femoratum – Spiny thighed sea spiderIncluded as an example of a common but rarely seen group, thePycnogonida or sea spiders. Found in hydroids and algae.Halobisium occidentale – Beach pseudoscorpionThese little (

Onychiurus dentata – Beach springtailThis unusual arthropod is common on Alaskan beaches. These tiny (

PupaOedoparena glauca – Barnacle maggot flyThis predator lives its entire life in the intertidal zone. The larva (maggots)feed on barnacles and the pupa are often found in empty barnacle shells.Paraclunio alaskensis – Intertidal midgeIncluded as an example of a very diverse group best identified as “midges”,these are usually under 3 mm. May form swarms on exposed algae.Order Geophilomorpha – Beach CentipedeThis may be an undescribed species. Very narrow body, reaching about 4cm long. 30 or more pairs of legs. Upper intertidal, under rocks.Order Lithobiomorpha – Beach CentipedeSeveral species may be present, these are characterized by 106 15 pairs oflegs. Highest intertidal (above barnacle zone) under rocks.

Chthamalus dalli – Little brown barnacleSmall, easily confused with young of other species. Shell brown, plates‘inflated’. Rostrum (arrow) overlapped by adjacent plates.Balanus crenatus – Crenate barnacleThis smooth and thin-shelled species often grows on smooth intertidal rocksand crab shells, fouling on boats. Mid to low intertidal. Shell thin and fragile.Balanus glandula – Acorn barnacleMost common barnacle in our area. Margin heavily scalloped. Leavescalcareous base when removed. Rostrum (arrow) overlaps adjacent plates.Barnacles and their allies- SubphylumCrustacea, Class MaxillopodaThis large and diverse group contains the barnacles andcopepods as well as a number of poorly known taxa.Barnacles are sessile as adults but have planktonic larvaethat are an important part of the zooplankton.The shelled barnacles are classed in two main groups. Theacorn barnacles (most of our species) are attached directly tothe substrate. The gooseneck barnacles are attached to thesubstrate by a flexible stalk.Not shown in this guide are the parasitic shell-lessRhizocephalan barnacles which are internal parasites ofdecapod crustaceans.107

Balanus nubilus – Giant barnacleUsually subtidal, this species lives in shallower water than the giant barnacleChirona evermanni (next page). Shell usually as wide or wider than tall.Balanus rostratus – Rostrate barnacleA highly variable species. Shown is a large form common on the outercoast characterized by sharp ridges and a very low profile.Semibalanus balanoides – Northern rock barnacleEasily confused with Balanus glandula. Margin not regularly scalloped. Nocalcareous base when removed. Shell often pitted with small borings.Semibalanus cariosus – Thatched barnacleThe largest intertidal barnacle, often 4 cm (1.6”) or larger. Margin 108 withsmall finger-like projections, sides grooved. No calcareous base.

Solidobalanus engbergi – Hydrocoral barnacleTypically associated with encrusting hydrocorals which often cover thebarnacle, specimens are also found without corals. Opening very small.Hesperibalanus hesperius – Shell barnacleAlmost exclusively found on snail shells. The deep grooves on the platesthat disappear before the opening are a distinctive feature.Photo by Paul NorwoodChirona evermanni – Deepwater giant barnacleThis deepwater species is often snagged by golden king crab pots.Superficially similar to Balanus nubilus, the shell is much taller than wide.Cryptolepas rachianecti – Gray whale barnacleIncluded as an example of the whale barnacles that are exclusively 109 foundon the skin of whales and dolphins. Most species are host specific.

Lepas anatifera – Pelagic gooseneck barnacleFound on the open ocean, these are often cast ashore on driftwood orattached to man-made objects. Shell with a few large plates.Order Harpacticoida – Harpacticoid copepodsUnlike other orders of copepod, this diverse group are often benthic andinfaunal. Many commensal on algaes, crabs, etc. Difficult to id.Pollicipes polymerus – Leaf gooseneck barnacleAn exclusively outer coast species. Found on rocks in the mid to upperintertidal zone on high energy beaches. Multiple small plates are distinct.CopepodsCopepods are a group of crustaceans closely related tobarnacles. Most are very small, only a few millimeters or lessin length. This group is enormously diverse but are generallyunnoticed.Many copepods are free swimming all of their lives, althoughthere are a number of parasitic forms that are sessile insideor on their host. Copepods are a critical component of marinefood webs as they feed on microscopic algae called diatomsand are in turn fed upon by larger zooplankters (includinglarval fish). A major group of copepods, the Harpacticoida,live primarily in the sediment and are abundant in theintertidal zone.110

Maera danae – Pink beach hopperA medium sized species common in the mid to low intertidal zone.Hydrophobic exoskeleton and color are distinct.Atylus collingi – White-eyed amphipodVery common on mixed sand and rocky beaches. The dorsal teeth(especially prominent towards back) and white eyes are distinct.Spinulogammarus carinatus – Spiny beach fleaA large conspicuous species, often dark gray or dark green in color. Sharpspines on posterior dorsum are distinctive, can bee seen with naked eye.Amphipods, isopods, opossumshrimp, and their allies – SubphylumCrustacea, Order PeracaridaThis extremely diverse group are typically small (usually less than 2 cm,0.8” in length although giants occur). Nearly always abundant, peracaridsare united by possession of a marsupium or pouch in the female used forbrooding embryos.Amphipods, sometimes called beach hoppers or sand fleas, have over700 representatives in Alaska. Extremely difficult to identify in the field,these often require dissection to determine species. I have included only afew common species. Most commonly encountered amphipods are in agroup called the gammarids. These are found from the highest tidal zoneto the deepest ocean depths. The strange skeleton shrimps (Caprellida)are highly modified amphipods that have elongate body segments.Hyperiid amphipods (not shown) are exclusively planktonic.111

Americorophium spinicorne – Spiny tube amphipodThis species prefers low salinity and can even be found far up tidal streams.Huge 2nd antennae distinguish genus, several other species present.Thorlaksonius sp. – Armored amphipodsThis large genus of slow moving amphipods are relatively hard-shelled andvariously covered in plates and spines like miniature armored dinosaurs.Traskorchestia traskiana – Common beach hopper, sand flea.Abundant in the upper intertidal zone, often under driftwood and algae.These jump very far when disturbed. First antennae reduced.Anonyx spp. – Longline sand fleasThese large (2-3 cm) amphipods are well known to longline fishermen 112 asthey scavenge hooked fish. Bean-shaped eyes distinguish this large family.

Perampithoe mea – Eelgrass amphipodGreen color and red eyes are distinct. Found in eelgrass and surfgrass aswell as in low intertidal algae. Related P. humeralis lives in kelp.Microjassa sp. – King crab amphipodThis possibly undescribed species lives in the mouth of golden king crabs!Bright pink when alive, easy to observe when host is in aquaria.Photo by Paul NorwoodCaprella alaskensis – Alaskan skeleton shrimpThis common genus contains many species and are difficult to identifywithout a microscope. Common on algae and hydroids, which they mimic.Cyamus scammoni – Gray whale louseIncluded as an example of the modified amphipods known as 113 whale lice.Like whale barnacles, whale lice are very host specific.

Pentidotea wosnessenskii – Rockweed isopodA very common species, usually found on Fucus or under rocks in theFucus-zone. Variable color, posterior rounded with pointed tip (inset).Ligia pallasi – Sea slaterClosely related to the terrestrial sowbugs, this species is commonly 2.5cm (1”) or more. Lives in the upper intertidal on rocks.Pentidotea resecata – Eelgrass isopodThis cryptic species can be found on eelgrass and on kelp, camouflagedto match substrate. Posterior concave (inset). Many other species.IsopodsAnother common group of peracarid crustaceans, isopods(unlike most amphipods) have all seven pairs of legsappearing nearly identical in shape. Amphipods generallyhave the first two pairs of legs modified as graspingstructures. As a general rule of thumb, isopods are flatteneddorsoventrally (“back to belly”) while amphipods are flattenedlaterally (“side to side”)Most people are familiar with the terrestrial isopods calledsowbugs or “roly-polies”. The majority of isopod species aremarine and can be found at all depths. A large number ofisopods are parasitic on fish and other sea creatures. Like allperacarids, isopods brood their embryos in a protective“pouch” made from modified structures on their legs.114

Gnorimosphaeroma oregonense – Intertidal pill bugResembling the terrestrial ‘roly-polie’ or pill bug, this species is abundantin the mid intertidal zone. Related species are present.Ianiropsis tridens – Three spined little isopodA common species on the outer coast often seen on sponges. Brightorange antennae are distinctive as are the white and brown body stripes.Janiralata occidentalis – Western little isopodAbundant but easily missed in clumps of coralline algae. This small (

Hemiarthrus abdominalis – Hippolytid shrimp abdominal isopodThis isopod is most common on the abdomen of the Sitka coastal shrimp.The isopod is usually a dark gray brown color, contrasting with the shrimp.Phyllodurus abdominalis – Mud shrimp isopodLives attached to the abdomen of blue mud shrimps. Not commonly seenwithout diligent searching. As typical for family, large female with dwarf male.Bopyroides hippolytes – Hippolytid shrimp gill isopodVisible only as a large swelling on the carapaces of hippolytid shrimps.Parasite only one side, if gills damaged on both sides shrimp would die.Parasitic Isopods – The EpicarideaThis aberrant group of isopods are all parasites on other crustaceans,most often decapods (crabs, shrimps, lobsters, etc.) but also on someothers such as opposum shrimps (next page). One local species (notshown in this guide) called Liriopsis pygmaea is parasitic on a barnaclethat is itself parasitic on hermit crabs!The species shown in this guide all belong to the family Bopyridae.Bopyrids are parasites on decapods and are most often seen either underthe abdomen or under the carapace inside of the branchial chamber.Those inside of the branchial chamber cause the carapace (shell) of theshrimp, crab, or lobster to develop a large swelling. Regardless of theirposition on the host, all species feed on the host’s body fluids and maycause considerable harm.When the isopod first infects a host, it does so as a juvenile. The firstisopod to reach a particular host will become a large female. The secondone to find the host will become a dwarf male and live as a parasite on thefemale!116

Order Cumacea - CumaceansCumaceans are an unusual group related to amphipods and isopods.Usually small (1-5 mm), look for these in sediment in tidepools.Thysanoessa longipes – KrillKnown by most people but rarely seen, this is one of six common krillspecies found in nearshore waters of Alaska. Under 5 cm long.Holmesimysis nudas – Opposum shrimpRepresentative of a large complex group in our region. Mysids are verydifficult to identify in the field. Form swarms in shallow water.Cumaceans,Mysids, and KrillCumaceans and mysids are related to amphipods andisopods. Like all peracarids, the females brood their young in apouch formed by enlarged flaps at the bases of their legs.Cumaceans are usually buried in sediments and can beobserved by carefully overturning the top layer of sand in atidepool. The tiny cumaceans will swim around before reburyingthemselves. The nearly transparent mysids oropposum shrimps are sometimes seen in large numbersswimming in shallow water.Euphausiids or krill look similar to mysids but are are notperacarids and are distant relatives of crabs and shrimps. Krillare almost never observed from shore but are abundant inplankton tows. Krill are an important link in the pelagic foodchain and are eaten by fish, whales, and seabirds.117

Upogebia pugettensis – Blue mud shrimpCommon species burrowing into sand and mud substrates. Oftenuncovered by clam diggers. Only local member of Infraorder Gebiidea.Photo by David CowlesNeotrypaea californiensis – Bay ghost shrimpPrimarily seen in the southern portion of SE Alaska. Found in the mid to lowintertidal zone in muddy or sandy areas. Sometimes seen by clam diggers.Callianopsis goniophthalma – Slope ghost shrimpAbundant in deep (>500 m) muddy areas, this burrowing shrimp iscommonly seen clinging to mud on traps or longline gear set for sablefish.Order Decapoda: Infraorder AnomuraThe order Decapoda are the “Ten legged” crustaceans andinclude such well known groups as the crabs, shrimps, andlobsters. The order is divided into several infraorders of whichat least five are found in Alaska. These are the Axiidea (ghostshrimps), Gebiidea (mud shrimps), Anomura (hermit crabs,king crabs, squat lobsters, and allies), Brachyura (true crabs),and Caridea (true shrimps). All five of these are groupedtogether in the suborder Pleocyemata which share the trait ofhaving the females brood their embryos on their abdomens.The anomurans are a diverse group in Alaska. One unifyingcharacteristic of this group is that they all have the 5 th (last)pair of legs greatly reduced and often hidden under thecarapace. In some, such as the squat lobsers and porcelaincrabs, the abdomen has a well-developed tail fan.118

Munida quadrispina – Squat lobsterCommon in deeper water, these are most often seen in shrimp pots. Theabdomen (not shown) of these resembles a small version of a lobster tail.Petrolisthes eriomerus – Flattop Porcelain crabThe only common porcelain crab in SE Alaska. The large very flat claws andthe brilliant bue spot on claws and mouth make this crab unmistakable.Pagurus hirsutiusculus – Hairy hermit crabAn abundant intertidal hermit crab. Shell usually appears too small. Upperto low intertidal, often in groups. Hairy legs and white ‘knees’ distinct.Pagurus beringanus – Bering Sea hermit crabCommon low intertidal species, often in aggregations. Legs banded withred, white, and olive green or blue are distinct. Antennae solid orange.

Pagurus hemphilli – Maroon hermit crabAn outer coast species associated with kelps. Legs maroon with tiny whitedots, antennae solid orange. Eyes with black and gold “bull's-eye” pattern.Pagurus caurinus – Greenmark hermit crabA very small hermit (in shells under 1 cm long) in the lowest intertidal. Whitebands on legs and solid orange antennae are distinct. Orange tips on claws..Pagurus granosimanus – Grainyhand hermit crabUnbanded olive legs with light blue dots and solid orange antennae helpdistinguish this species. Prefers large, heavy shells. Mid to low intertidal.Family Paguridae – The Hermit CrabsFew groups of intertidal animals in Alaska are as diverse andas amusing than are the hermit crabs. The patient tidepoolobserver will see them forage for food, search for betterhomes, and squabble over resources.The abdomen of hermit crabs is mostly uncalcified (soft). Theabdomen is protected by an empty snail shell, hollow sponge,worm tube, or other suitable home. The majority prefer a snailshell, and their abdomen is coiled to fit into their home. Manyspecies such as the wide-handed hermits use their right clawas a door when withdrawn into shell, much like the operculumof a snail. Some hermits are difficult to identify in the field.Important traits are the banding patterns (or lack of) on thelegs and antennae and the shape and size of the claws.120

Pagurus capillatus – Thick-haired hermit crabOne of the large hermits seen in the lowest intertidal and subtidal. Often incrab traps. Long hairs in tufts often obscuring spines on claw surface.Pagurus setosus – Thin-haired hermit crabLess furry than the very similar P. capillatus. Long hairs not in dense tufts,not obscuring spines on claws. Antennae solid light brown.Pagurus kennerlyi – Blue spined hermit crabAnother of the large hermits seen in the lowest intertidal and subtidal.Often in crab traps. Blue or white tipped spines distinct. Antennae banded.Pagurus quaylei - Quayle’s hermit crabTiny species in shells under 1.5 cm in length. Legs and antennae 121 banded.Long hairs present. Found in the lowest intertidal, most often subtidal.

Pagurus ochotensis – Alaskan hermit crabAnother of the large hermits seen in the lowest intertidal and subtidal.Often in crab traps. Iridescent claws with maroon stripe and yellow greeneyes distinct.Pagurus aleuticus – Aleutian hermit crabA very large hermit found subtidally. Claws uniformly orange-brown,lacking iridescence or maroon stripe on fingers like the Alaskan hermit.Pagurus armatus – Black-eyed hermit crabSimilar to the Alaskan hermit (above), this species has dark eyes and lacksthe iridescence on the claws. Spines on claws sharper and more numerous.Pagurus hartae – Hart’s hermit crabThis tiny (in shells under 1 cm) hermit crab is immediately recognizable 122 by thebrilliant violet patches on the claws and legs. Lowest intertidal and subtidal.

Pagurus stevensae – Steven’s hermit crabThe overal red to pink color with small spines and hairs distinguishes thissubtidal species. Adults often occupy the hermit crab sponge Suberites.Pagurus dalli – Whitekneed hermit crabUsually subtidal, this hermit is distinguished by the white band on the ‘knees’(between merus and carpus) and a sharp spiny ridge on left claw only.Pagurus confragosus – Knobbyhand hermit crabA subtidal species common in deep water crab and shrimp traps. Ridgeson both claws, the right ridge forming a rounded knob. Legs banded.Pagurus cornutus – Hornyhand hermit crabA deepwater hermit often seen in shrimp and crab traps. Ridges 123 on bothclaws, the right ridge forming a forward-pointing horn. Legs solid red-orange.

Pagurus tanneri – Longhand hermit crabA deepwater hermit commonly seen in crab pots set for golden king crabs.Ridges on both claws, the right ridge does not form horn or knob.Elassochirus tenuimanus – Wide-handed hermit crabAnother large species. Juveniles common in low intertidal. Wide right clawcovered in granules distinct. Blue on legs and claws is typical.Elassochirus gilli – Red hermit crabMedium-sized species common in the low intertidal and subtidal. Colorunmistakable, yellow orange to scarlet. Legs and claws smooth.Elassochirus cavimanus – Violet hermit crabOften large, this species is restricted to deep water but often 124 captured inshrimp traps. The violet and yellow claws are distinct.

Labidochirus splendescens – Splendid hermit crabThis unusual species has a reduced abdomen and uses a tiny shell. Thecarapace is strongly calcified. Subtidal, often common.Orthopagurus minimus – Tusk shell hermit crabThis subtidal hermit crab prefers the shells of tusk shells (dentalia). Theright claw is about two times longer than the left and much more massive.Discorsopagurus schmitti – Tubeworm hermit crabCommon in the low intertidal on the outer coast. Nearly always in tubewormshells, usually those still attached to rocks. Claws nearly equal in length.Alternative HousingBreaking the rule of always living in snail shells, severalgroups of hermit crabs have adapted to alternative homes.Some, as shown on this page, live in tubeworm tubes or intuskshells. Others will opportunistically live in “shells” createdby the sponge Suberites latus after the sponge dissolves theoriginal shell. The hermit crab just snips away portions of theconstantly growing sponge so never needs to change shellsas it grows.One strange group of hermit crabs (The Parapaguridae, onlyone deepwater species found in Alaska and not featured inthis guide) use a specialized sea anemone that creates amimic snail shell for the crab that continues to grow with thehermit!125

Dermaturus mandtii – Wrinkled lithode crabThis small species is most often seen on the outer coast. They hide inempty barnacles and kelp holdfasts.Acantholithodes hispidus – Spiny lithode crabDistinguished from other local king crabs by the small sharp spines onlegs and carapace, each tipped with a hair. Bright red claw tips typical.Oedignathus inermis – Paxillose crabThis crab nestles in rock crevices and empty barnacles in the lowestintertidal and subtidal. These prefer open coast or high-current areas.The King Crabs – Family LithodidaeNearly everyone is familiar with the famous Alaskan kingcrabs. Red king crab from Alaska can be found in restaurantsworldwide. What most people don’t know is that there are 21(possibly 22) species of king crab found in Alaska! Only a feware large enough or common enough to attract commercialattention.King crabs are closely related to hermit crabs and sharemany common features with these not seen in the Brachyuraor “true crabs”. The easiest way to tell a king crab from a truecrab is to count the legs. King crabs have four pairs (includingthe claws) of visible legs with the 5 th pair greatly reduced andusually hidden. True cabs have the 5th pair of legs smallerthan the others but still visible and functional as legs.126

Hapalogaster mertensii – Hairy crabSimilar to H. grebnitzkii, this species has an orange-red underside. Bothspecies in loose rockpiles and crevices, low intertidal and subtidal.Hapalogaster grebnitzkii – Northern hairy crabAnother unusual member of the king crab family. Usually subtidal, rarelyintertidal. Blue-grey underside distinguishes it from H. mertensii.Placetron wosnessenskii – Scaled crabThis fast moving agile species is commonly seen in shrimp traps. Legsand carapace covered with overlapping scales, fingers of claws very long.Paralithodes camtschaticus –Red king crabJuveniles of this species are found in the low intertidal zone. 127 Adults areshallow to moderately deep water. Six spines in cardiac region.

Paralithodes platypus – Blue king crabNot as well known as its relatives, the blue king supports a fishery in theBering Sea. Four spines in cardiac region.Lithodes aequispina – Golden king crabOften called ‘brown king crab’, this is the primary species currentlyharvested in SE Alaska. Never intertidal but commercially important.Lopholithodes mandtii – Puget Sound box crabThe brilliant scarlet, violet, and orange colors immediately distinguish thisfrom the brown box crab. Rocky areas on outer coast, subtidal.Lopholithodes foraminatus – Brown box crabCommonly caught as by-catch in crab traps or snagged on halibut 128 gear.Rarely intertidal. Can close up into tight-fitting ‘box’ when threatened.

Phyllolithodes pappilosus – Heart crabFound in the lowest intertidal in rocky areas on the outer coast. Commonname from cardiac region with raised heart-shaped outline.Rhinolithodes wosnessenskii – Rhinoceros crabAn uncommon subtidal species. The triangular carapace is similar to theheart crab (left) but cardiac region with deep circular groove.Cryptolithodes sitchensis – Umbrella crabUsually restricted to the outer coast, there common in the low intertidal.Claws smooth and rostrum widest at tip.Cryptolithodes typicus – Butterfly crabUncommon in the lowest intertidal and subtidal. Distinguished 129 from C.sitchensis by rough granular claws. Rostrum widest at base.

Oregonia gracilis – Graceful decorator crabThe long legs and abundant ‘decorations’ immediately distinguish thiscommon but easily missed species. Decorations dependent on habitat.Pugettia gracilis – Graceful kelp crabLow intertidal and subtidal. I call this the “lazy decorator crab” because itusually decorates with only a single piece of algae on rostrum.Pugettia producta – Northern kelp crabJuveniles are often olive green while adults become dark maroon.Common in algae, adults often seen on pilings. Smooth carapace distinct.The True Crabs – Infraorder BrachyuraBrachyuran or true crabs are common in nearly all marinehabitats. In Alaska the commercially important Dungeness,Tanner, and snow crabs are members of this group along witha host of other smaller species often seen by beachexplorers.There are eight families of true crabs found in Alaska. Threeof these families belong to a large group collectively knownas spider crabs. The snow and Tanner crabs belong to thisgroup. Spider crabs usually have a forked (bifid) rostrum andlong thin legs. One very diverse family in Alaska are thePinnotheridae or pea crabs. These are almost always livingnear, on, or inside of other invertebrates. The Cancridae (rockor cancer crabs) are another diverse family best known forthe large edible Dungeness crab.130

Pugettia richii – Cryptic kelp crabUncommon north of Prince of Wales Island (but recorded to Sitka).Sharper and narrower spines on sides of carapace than in P. gracilis.Mimulus foliatus – Foliate kelp crabCommon in rocky areas of the outer coast. Unlike other kelp crabs thecarapace is wider than long and has a “maple leaf” shape.Hyas lyratus – Lyre crabMedium to large species. Distinct ‘lyre-shaped’ carapace distinct. Usuallyshallow to deep subtidal, common in crab and shrimp traps.Chionoecetes bairdi – Tanner crabJuveniles rarely found in the intertidal, adults subtidal. Molts 131 commonlywashed ashore. Only shallow Tanner crab in region.

Chionoecetes tanneri – Grooved tanner crabExclusively deep water, this crab is distinguished by prominent, sharpcarapace spines on sides and by a deep groove in center of carapace.Scyra acutifrons – Sharp-nosed crabAn outer coast species, this is the only local spider crab with large roughtubercles on carapace. Rostrum leaf-shaped, males with enormous claws.Chorilia longipes – Longhorn decorator crabA decorator crab that doesn’t decorate at all. Deep water, often in craband shrimp traps. White and orange banded claws typical.Cancer productus – Red rock crabCommon intertidal species on outer coast, subtidal in inside waters. Brickredcolor of adults distinct. Juveniles variable in color and pattern

Romaleon branneri – Furrowed rock crabUncommon subtidal species, intertidal on outer coast. Our only rock crabwith densely hairy carapace. Formerly Cancer branneri.Metacarcinus magister - Dungeness crabThe most important commercial crab in SE Alaska. Common in sandyareas, especially around eelgrass. Formerly Cancer magisterMetacarcinus gracilis – Graceful rock crabEasily confused with small Dungeness crabs, the ridge on top of clawslacks sharp teeth. Found in eelgrass. Formerly Cancer gracilis.Glebicarcinus oregonensis – Pygmy rock crabA small species found in the low intertidal and subtidal. Carapace 133 morerounded than other rock crabs. Formerly Cancer oregonensis

Telmessus cheirogonus – Helmut crabThe yellow-brown color and densley hairy body distinguish this species.Carapace roughly pentangular in outline.Lophopanopeus bellus bellus – Black clawed crabThis common intertidal species is usually found on the outer coast. Thelack of “teeth” between eyes distinguish this from the pygmy rock crab.Pinnixa schmitti – Schmitt’s pea crabA common intertidal species associated with tubeworms, spoon worms,sea cucumbers, and brittle stars, or free-living, but never with clamsPinnixa tubicola – Tube-dwelling pea crabA common intertidal species nearly always found inside the 134 tubes ofparchment tubeworms (pg. 32). Wide but short carapace distinct.

Pinnixa littoralis – Horseclam pea crabNearly every horseclam opened will have a pair of these crabs inside. Thefemale (left) is much larger than the male.Fabia subquadrata – Mussel pea crabFound in Modiolus modiolus (horse mussel) in inside waters and Mytiluscalifornianus (California mussel) on the outer coast. Sometimes very common.Hemigrapsus oregonensis – Green shore crabRare in the Juneau area, abundant on outer coast. Color green to dullgray. Legs with distinct hairs.Hemigrapsus nudas – Purple shore crabAbsent in inside waters, abundant on outer coast. Color purple, 135 but someindividuals are yellow-green when adult. Legs without hairs.

Crangon alaskensis – Alaskan sand shrimpGenus diverse, difficult to identify to species. Carapace with single dorsalspine, 1 st claw 2-3 times longer than wide. Common low intertidal species.Lissocrangon stylirostris – Smooth sand shrimpVery similar to other sand shrimps, but only local species without anydorsal carapace spines. Very common low intertidal species.Crangon franciscorum – San Francisco Bay sand shrimpAnother common member of this diverse genus. Carapace with singledorsal spine, 1st claw 5-8 times longer than wide. Low intertidal to subtidal.Infraorder Caridea – The True ShrimpsThis group is best known in Alaska for the large species in thefamily Pandalidae that are often sold dockside or in fishmarkets for food. It is the large powerful abdomen or tail ofshrimps that makes them highly sought after for the dinnerplate. Alaska is especially rich in shrimp species, with over100 species recorded. The majority of these are much tosmall to be considered for human food, but are very importantprey items for fish and birds.There are six families of shrimps found in Alaska. About halfof our species belong to the family Hippolytidae or brokenbackshrimps. The Crangonidae or sand shrimps are anotherdiverse family. Some families, such as the Oplophoridae andPasiphaeidae (not in this guide) are completely pelagic andonly found in the open ocean.136

Argis dentata – Arctic argidCommon subtidal species. The eyes of argids are very close together andseem to “look up”. Other species may be common in subtidal sand.Metacrangon munita - Coastal spinyheadSmall subtidal shrimp that can be distinguished from other crangonids bythe presence of carapace spines in between the dorsal and lateral spines.Rhynocrangon alatus – Saddleback shrimpAn uncommon subtidal species. Rough armored carapace and abdomenare distinct. Sometimes brightly colored to match substrate.Scleocrangon boreas – Tank shrimpA large, stout bodied shrimp. Often buried in sand and gravel in the lowintertidal and subtidal. Commonly seen in trawls and traps.

Paracrangon echinata – Horned shrimpA strange subtidal species most common in the southern portion of SEAlaska. Only crangonid with a long, pointed rostrum. Missing 2 nd legs.Pasiphaea pacifica – Pacific glass shrimpThis common species spends its life swimming far above the bottom. Whenalive body is nearly transparent. Important forage for fish and sea mammals.Heptacarpus sitchensis – Sitka coastal shrimpA common species in eelgrass. Carapace usually with fine zebra-likestripes on sides. Abdomen variable, sometimes transparent.Heptacarpus kincaidi – Kincaid’s shrimpCommon subtidal species associated with sea anemones. Red 138 and yellowbody markings combined with white midrib on rostrum are distinctive traits.

Heptacarpus stylus – Stiletto shrimpColor highly variable, usually matches habitat. Usually with brilliant bluedots. Rostrum long and pointed, nearly always with white stripe.Heptacarpus carinatus – Smalleyed coastal shrimpCommon in eelgrass, this species is often bright green with white stripe onrostrum, stripe bordered with red. Abdomen with pronounced dorsal hump.Heptacarpus brevirostris – Stout shrimpThe most common intertidal shrimp. Cryptic in tidepools and on algae andhydroids. Very short rostrum distinct, color variable.Heptacarpus pugettensis – Barred shrimpCommon on outer coast, patchy distribution in inside waters. 139 Smallspecies about 1.5 cm long, often clings to overturned rocks.

Hippolyte clarki – Kelp humpback shrimpThis abundant outer coast species is found in kelp canopies or in eelgrassbeds and is often colored to match substrate. No white stripe on rostrum.Eualus suckleyi – Short scale eualidA very common subtidal species. Long rostrum with dorsal teeth pastmiddle half. Coloration is distinctive, red bars with yellow spots.Eualus fabricii – Arctic eualidCommon subtidal and low intertidal species. Similar to the short scaleeualid, rostrum lacking dorsal teeth past middle half.Eualus butleri – Sponge eualidA subtidal species distinguished by the very short rostrum. The 140 very similarE. pusiolus (doll eualid) requires microscopic examination to separate.

Spirontocaris prionota – Deep bladed shrimpCommon in the lowest intertidal, the “Mohawk-like” rostrum and 3-4spines on the side of carapace behind the eye are distinct.Spirontocaris arcuata – Rathbun’s bladed shrimpDifficult to distinguish from similar species in the field. Carapace with dorsalteeth nearly to posterior margin. Color highly variable.Spirontocaris ochotensis – Oval bladed shrimpA common low intertidal species found among seaweed covered rocks.Dorsal teeth only on front half on carapace. Extremely variable in color.Lebbeus groenlandicus – Spiny lebbeidThis common subtidal species commonly exceeds 8 cm in length. 141 Carapacewith four strong dorsal teeth, abdomen with sharp ventral spines.

Lebbeus mundus – Cleaner lebbeidThis subtidal species has been observed cleaning (grooming) largepredatory fish, a behavior more common in tropical shrimps.Lebbeus grandimanus – Candy-striped shrimpExclusively subtidal, this beautiful shrimp is nearly always found inassociation with the crimson anemone Cribinopsis fernaldi.Betaeus harrimani – Northern hooded shrimpThe large claws of this species give these shrimps a lobster-like appearance.Usually in burrows of the blue mud shrimp Upogebia pugettensisBetaeus setosus – Fuzzy hooded shrimpThe large claws of this shrimp are wider than in B. harrimani. 142 Associatedwith porcelain crabs in other areas, ours seem to be free-living.

Pandalus platyceros – Spot prawnThis one of the important commercial shrimp species in Alaska and thelargest. Juveniles common in low intertidal eelgrass, adults subtidal.Pandalus stenolepis – Roughpatch shrimpA small subtidal species similar to the dock shrimp (next page) but lacks darkstripes on carapace and abdomen. Red and blue spots on abdomen distinct.Pandalus hypsinotus – Coonstripe shrimpAnother commercially harvested species in SE Alaska. Highly archedcarapace with many fine teeth is distinct.Shrimp or prawn?As a biologist a common question that I am asked is, “What isthe difference between shrimps and prawns?” The answer issomewhat complicated. In popular jargon a prawn is simply alarge shrimp, or any shrimp destined for the dinner plate thatis larger than “salad shrimp” size.Biologically the answer is a bit more complex. Generallywhen a decapod biologist refers to “shrimp” they are referringto members of the infraorder Caridea (“True shrimps”). Theterm “prawn” is used for members of the suborderDendrobranchiata. These look like true shrimps but are onlydistantly related. Alaska has a few true prawns, but these aresmall forms with little commercial value. Imported true prawnssuch as Gulf prawns, tiger prawns, and white shrimp arecommonly sold. All Alaska-caught “prawns” are true shrimps!143

Pandalus eous – Pacific pink shrimpThe Pacific pink shrimp is a deepwater species that is commerciallyharvested. The pink color and dorsal spine on abdomen are distinct.Pandalus danae – Dock shrimpCommon shallow water pandalid. Dark brown to black stripes on carapaceand abdomen and white and blue spots are distinct.Pandalus goniurus – Humpback shrimpThe smallest of the local pandalid shrimps, the transparent body with redlines is distinctive. Note spine on dorsum of abdominal segment three.Pandalopsis dispar – Side stripe shrimpDeepwater species that is commercially harvested. Longitudinal 144 whitestripes on abdomen and very long antennae distinct.

Florometra serratissima - Northern feather starThis is the only shallow water crinoid in diving depths in SE Alaska.Typically found 10-200 meters depth, may be abundant on pinnacles.Stegophiura ponderosa – Armored brittle starCommon deep water species (below 75 meters, usually below 300meters). Arms triangular in cross-section. Red to red-orange color.Florometra asperrima – Deepwater Northern feather starNearly identical to the northern feather star. If found deeper than 200 meters, itis likely this species. Commonly snagged by deep-water fishing gear.Brittle stars, Sea stars, Sea cucumbers,and Sea urchins – Phylum EchinodermataThis well known group is highly diverse and found throughout theworld’s oceans. They are exclusively marine. Unlike any otheranimals on the planet they utilize a water vascular system formovement which is analogous to man-made hydraulic systems.Echinoderms are closely related to chordates, the group thatincludes sea squirts, fishes, and terrestrial vertebrates such ashumans. The phylum Echinodermata is divided into three livingsubphyla (and several extinct groups), all of which haverepresentatives in Alaska. These are the Crinozoa (sea lillies andfeather stars), Asterozoa (sea stars and brittle stars), and theEchinozoa (the sea urchins and sea cucumbers).145

Ophiura sarsii – Notched brittle starCommon subtidal species. Similar to O. luetkenii but oral plates (onunderside between arms) widest toward distal end.Ophipholis kennerlyi – Daisy brittle starMost often seen intertidal brittle star. Found in the lowest intertidal. Prefersrocky areas with little silt. Formerly O. aculeata.Ophiura luetkenii – Gray brittle starCommon subtidal species. Nearly always multiple shades of brown, grayand pale yellow or white. Oral plates widest toward center of plate.Brittle Stars and Basket StarsAn abundant but easily missed group, the rapidly movingbrittle stars are a favorite of low tide explorers. Unlike seastars which move primarily with their tube feet, brittle starsmove their arms in a snake-like fashion (thus giving themboth their class name of Ophiuroidea and their alternatecommon name, the serpent stars).Brittle stars are found in a variety of habitats, typically in thelow intertidal and subtidal. Many species are burrowing andcan be found in soft sediments. Others are only found inrocky areas where they squeeze into crevices and extendtheir arms into the water column to capture passing organicparticles as the drift by. The basket stars have their armshighly branched and covered in sticky mucous. Thesecapture plankton and detritus as it drifts by.

Ophipholis japonica – Japanese Daisy brittle starAbundant deep water species, often attached to corals and barnaclessnagged by fishing gear. Disk with abundant spines. Formerly O. aculeata.Ophiophthalmus cataleimmoidus – Spiny-brown brittle starAnother abundant deep water species. Disk with rounded granules and armspines1.5-2 times longer than width of arm. Arms banded light and dark brown.Ophiophthalmus normani - Rosy brittle starSimilar to the spiny-brown brittle star but arms solid colored, usually red topurple-brown. Occasionally bright yellow. Often found on corals.Amphiodia occidentalis – Long armed brittle starTiny disk and very long arms define this genus. A. periercta is similar buthas pointed (instead of blunt) arm spines. Found in mud under rocks.

Amphiodia periercta – Burrowing brittle starUnlike the related A. occidentalis, this brittle star is subtidal and onlyoccasionally seen in the lowest intertidal . Arm spines are distinctly pointed.Ophioscolex corynetes – Soft brittle starThe disk of this unusual star is large and gelatinous and is commonly lostduring handling. Abundant deep water species caught on fishing gear.Gorgonocephalus eucnemis – Basket starThis bizarre subtidal brittle star is immediately recognizable due to thebranching arms. Prefers areas with strong current.Astrochele sp. – Deep sea serpent starThis group of basket stars lack the branching arms typical of that group.These are associated with deep-sea corals, especially on pinnacles.

Luidia foliolata – Sand starThis burrowing sea star is usually subtidal but occasionally found on sandflats in the lowest intertidal zone. Very fragile species, tube feet pointed.Leptychaster anomalus – Pentagonal sand starResembles the mud star but lacks the raised cone in center of disk andthe spines on margin of legs. Often clinging to crab and shrimp pots.Ctenodiscus crispatus – Mud starThis deep water species is commonly associated with thick mud bottoms.Cone in center of disk and spines on sides of arms are distinctive.Sea Stars – Class AsteroideaNearly everyone is familiar with the group of echinodermsknown as sea stars (the common name starfish is falling intodisuse). Sea stars are common on most beaches, and Alaskahas an amazing diversity of these fascinating creatures. Anumber of our common species are extremely variable incolor so one will frequently see groups with individuals thatare purple, yellow, brown, orange, or many other colors.While the basic pattern for sea stars is five-armed, a numberof common local species will nearly always have six, and thegiant sunflower star can have twenty-four or more! Sea starsare generally predators or scavengers with many specializedat hunting bivalved mollusks (clams, scallops, etc.). Some,like the sun stars (genus Solaster) feed mainly on otherechinoderms.149

Cheiraster dawsoni – Fragile sea starA common subtidal species, this species is nearly always bright red withlighter mottling. Rarely brought up intact as arms very fragile and easily shed.Nearchaster pedicellaris – Pedicellate fragile sea starSimilar to the fragile sea star, this species has much narrower legs andsmaller spines on aboral surface. Color light tan to brown, never red.Dipsacaster borealis – Northern sand starRestricted to deep water, the northern sand star is characterized by its darkorange to orange-brown color. Can be difficult to distinguish from D. anoplus.Dipsacaster anoplus – Unarmored sand starVery similar to the northern sand star, the unarmored sand star is typicallya pale brown color. Not readily distinguished in field from D. borealis.

Mediaster aequalis – Vermillion sea starNot common in the intertidal zone. The pink to bright color and regularcircular paxillae covering aboral surface are distinct features.Gephryeaster swifti – Gunpowder starResembling the Vermillion star, the gunpowder star is much larger, moreinflated, paler in color, and smells strongly of gunpowder. Strictly subtidal.Pseudoarchaster parelli – Northern scarlet starThis deepwater sea star is very difficult to distinguish from the Alaskanscarlet star. 35-40 marginal plates on each side of arm, color red-orange.Pseudarchaster alascensis – Alaskan scarlet starThis deepwater species is wine-red in color and has 45-55 marginal 151 plateson each side of arm. Found much deeper than the northern scarlet star.

Ceramaster patagonicus – Cookie sea starThis subtidal sea star has a nearly pentagonal outline bordered withregular marginal plates. Most common member of genus in SE Alaska.Hippasteria heathi – Heath’s spiny starThis is an uncommon deep water species that feeds on deep sea coralssuch as Isidella (bamboo coral). Pedicellaria bivalved (see inset).Hippasteria spinosa - Southern spiny starA common subtidal species often seen in crab and shrimp pots. Colortypically red or red-orange. Abundant spines on surface are blunt-tipped.Tube feet, spines, and pincersThe relatively simple shape of sea stars belies a complex setof features that make these animals so successful. If you turna sea star over and examine the underside (called the oralsurface) you will notice that each arm has groove called theambulacral groove which contains the tube feet. By pumpingwater in or out of these the sea star can exercise amazingcontrol over these, enabling them to walk, pry open bivalves,even dig holes.The upper surface (aboral surface) of sea stars is oftencovered with small spines. The shape and pattern of thesespines are important characters for identification. If you lookvery carefully with magnification you will see that some ofthese spines form tiny pincers called pedicellaria. The disk ofa sea star has a small but conspicuous circular patch calledthe madereporite used to draw in water.

Dermasterial imbricata – Leather sea starMost often seen on the outer coast. Smooth leather-like skin andcoloration distinctive. Strong garlic-like smell when disturbed.Patiria miniata – Bat starOccasionally found on the outer coast, this species has a patchy distribution(common in very few areas, absent in most). Rough aboral surface.Pisaster ochraceous – Ochre starRare in Juneau area, abundant on outer coast. Color highly variable.Upper intertidal species. Arms widest at disk, unlike EvasteriasPisaster brevispinis – Giant pink sea starThis huge (commonly > 40 cm across) sea star is nearly always pale tobright pink in color. Most often subtidal, rarely low intertidal.

Leptasterias hexactis – Rough six-armed sea starEasily confused with L.. alaskensis. This species has row of largerrounded spines running down each arm. Usually outer coast.Leptasterias coei – Coe’s six-armed sea starGiant six-armed species (> 15 cm across). Background color mostoftenlight to dark brown, no mottling unlike L polaris katherinae.Leptasterias alaskensis – Six-armed sea starSimilar to L. hexactis but lacking row of larger spines on aboral surface ofarms. Overall smoother appearance. Common in inside waters.BroodingMost (if not all) members of the genus Leptasterias arebrooders. This means that instead of releasing eggs into thewater column the fertilized eggs and juveniles are protectedby the mother until they are ableto crawl away. Typically seen inearly spring, brooding six-armedstars have the disk humped upas if they are feeding. If youcarefully pick up the star, you cansee the mass of bright orangeeggs held near the mouth. Afterhatching the sea star will have hundreds of tiny babiesattached to the rock underneath it that already have the starshapeof the adults.154

Leptasterias polaris katherinae – Katherine’s six-armed sea starGiant six-armed species (> 15 cm across). Nearly always mottled creamand brown, sometimes reddish. Common subtidal species.Leptasterias aequalis – Delicate six-armed sea starUsually uncommon, the long, narrow arms are distinct. Variably colored,commonly brown, red, or pink.Leptasterias hylodes – Five-armed six-armed sea starUnlike most congeners, this species only has five arms. May be confusedwith juveniles of other species, note white, sharp spines on aboral surface.Evasterias troschelli – Mottled sea starThe most common large sea star in Juneau area. Variable in 155 color. Armsnarrower and than in Pisaster, also constricted near disk.

Orthasterias koehleri – Rainbow sea starQuite distinct when the specimen is the bright pink mottled form. However,other colors occur. Large white spines are distinct.Close-up view of the bright red eye of the rose star, Crossaster papposus.Lethasterias nanimensis – Black spined sea starA subtidal species that is common throughout SE Alaska. The blackspines on the aboral surface are distinctStarry-eyed?Most people are surprised to learn that sea stars havefunctioning eyes. The eyes of a sea star are commonly brightred and are located at the tip of each arm. The eye is actuallya compound eye (as seen in insects and other arthropods)but differs from typical compound eyes in many importantways, such as lacking a lens. Because of the lack of a lens,sea stars appear to only be able to see large, relatively stillobjects such as rocks.A study in 2014 demonstrated that one tropical sea star usesthis relatively poor vision to orient itself to its home on thereef. They seem to ‘memorize’ the nearby horizon and ifmoved can return to where they started – provided they arenot moved more than 6 feet. It is not known if this is thefunction of the eyes of our sea stars.156

Stylasterias forreri – Fish eating sea starExclusively subtidal species. Aboral surface with rows of long whitespines. Aboral surface with raised wart-like papillae. Color variable.Pycnopodia helianthoides – Sunflower starA distinct and amazing low intertidal to subtidal species. Soft body andmultiple arms (up to 24) are distinct. Color variable.Solaster pacificus – Northern sunstarMost often with 10 arms, these relatively short and fat at the bases. Colorvariable, often solid purple. Intertidal and subtidal. Formerly S. endeca.Solaster stimpsoni – Stimpson’s sunstarSimilar in coloration and arm-number to some S. pacifica, the 157 arms aremuch longer and narrower. Intertidal and subtidal.

Solaster dawsoni – Morning sunstarColor often orange or brown, with yellow margins. Usually with 12 arms.Intertidal and subtidal.Solaster sp. (undescribed) – Remarkable sunstarUsually found in deep water (below 500 feet) in SE Alaska. Nearly alwayshas 8 arms. Commonly pale pink with a reddish star pattern on disk.Crossaster papposus – Rose starColoration is distinctive. Tufts of spines distinguish from Solaster spp. Smallerthan sunflower star, with more complex spines. Intertidal and subtidal.Crossaster borealis – Deep sea sunstarA common deep water species. Similar to Solaster spp., the 158 ‘rougher’surface and long inframarginal plates (on sides of arms) are distinct.

Crossaster sp. (undescribed) – Pink rose starReported only from the Aleutians, the pink rose star is quite common in deepwater (below 1,000 feet). Uniform pink color but with arm-tips more red.Henricia levuiscula – Blood starThe long narrow arms and orange to bright red aboral surface are distinguishingfeatures. Oral surface usually yellow. Low intertidal and subtidal.Henricia sp. (undescribed) – Armpit blood starOften confused with the blood star and formerly thought to be a color morphof that species. Nearly always with blue-gray mottling between arms.Henricia pumilla – Dwarf mottled starA recently described species, these are occasionally found in the lowestintertidal of the outer coast. Color pattern is distinctive.

Henricia sanguinolenta – Northern blood starA common subtidal species. Color is highly variable, often withmadreporite contrasting background color. Arm bases slightly inflated.Pteraster tesselatus – Tesselated slime starBody very thick and soft. Arms generally short, as long as or shorter thandisk. Like all slime stars produces mucous when disturbed.Pteraster militaris – Wrinkled slime starUnlike the similar P. tesselatus, the arms of this species are generallylonger than disk diameter. Exclusively subtidal species.Diplopteraster multipes – Pincushion slime starTypically found below 300 feet, this is the only slime star with 160 sharp spineson aboral surface. Color usually dark purple brown.

Cucumeria miniata – Red sea cucumberA common large intertidal sea cucumber. The bright orange tentacles aredistinctive, although some are dark red-brown.Cucumeria frondosa japonica – Giant black sea cucumberThe largest sea cucumber in our area. Rarely intertidal. White tentacleswith black tips are distinct. Body dark gray-brown.Cucumeria vegae – Tar spot sea cucumberA tiny (less than 5 cm, 2”) species that often occurs in large aggregationson intertidal rocks. The dark brown to black color is distinct.The Sea CucumbersThis unusual group of echinoderms belong to the classHolothuroidea. Unlike most echinoderms, the ossicles orcalcareous plates of most sea cucumbers are small andisolated within the body wall which gives them a soft fleshybody. One notable exception are the creeping pedal seacucumbers (genus Psolus, next page) that have their uppersurface covered with fused ossicles forming strong plates.Sea cucumbers are characterized by an elongate body withtube feet typically in five rows. Some species have rows oftube feet on the entire body, while others have the tube feetonly on the portion of the body closest to the substrate.Others, usually burrowing forms, lack tube feet on the body.The retractable tentacles of sea cucumbers extend from themouth and are used for feeding. These are actually161modifiedtube feet!

Cucumaria pallida – Pale sea cucumberLow intertidal and subtidal. Resembles C. miniata, but is usually white,pale pink or pale orange bodied and tentacles are thinner and white.Cucumaria fallax – Pale sea footballUncommon large sea cucumber found only in the northernmost portion ofSE Alaska. Yellow to pale orange body, tentacles orange.Psolus chitonoides – Creeping pedal sea cucumberCommon low intertidal and subtidal species. Unattached surface with hardplates, tube feet in rows on bottom. Other species found in deep water.Psolus squamatus – White-scaled sea cucumberDeep water species commonly seen attached to snagged rocks, corals,etc. Color off white, often with brown or black stains on surface.

Eupentacta pseudoquiquesemita – White sea cucumberThe common species in the Juneau area. Common under rocks, alsofound in sandy areas. Tube feet are soft and smooth feeling.Eupentacta quinquesimita – Stiff footed sea cucumberMost common on outer coast. The tube feet of this species are stiff andfeel rough to the touch.Pentamera pseudocalcigera – Bent sea cucumberA common subtidal species. Body is permanently bent into a U-shape.Texture is rough due to microscopic ossicles protruding through skin.Apostichopus californicus – Giant sea cucumberThis large species is commercially harvested for food. The tube 163 feet areconfined to the underside. Usually subtidal, occasionally low intertidal.

Synallactes challengeri – Challenger sea cucumberThis exclusively subtidal sea cucumber is occassionaly snagged by fishinggear. Resembles the red sea cucumber but has rows of finer papillae.Chiridota discolor – Jellybean sea cucumberThis species lacks tube feet and is partially transparent and worm-like. Insand between intertidal rocks.Mopaldia intermedia – Sweet potato sea cucumberThis common subtidal cucumber lacks tube feet so that the body iscompletely smooth. “Hamster tail” on posterior end is distinct.Paracaudina chilensis – Rattail sea cucumberUncommon burrowing sea cucumber. Very worm-like as it lacks 164 tube feet.Long posterior end protrudes from burrow entrance like a bivalve siphon.

Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis – Green sea urchinLongest scientific name of any animal. Abundant mid to low intertidalspecies. Only common sea urchin in inside waters. Tube feet purple.Strongylocentrotus franciscanus – Red sea urchinA very large urchin, often exceeding 10 cm in test diameter. Nearly alwayspale to dark red. Longest spines exceed height of test.Strongylocentrotus pallidus - Pale sea urchinThis deep water (> 100 feet) urchin resembles a pale version of the green seaurchin. Spines more delicate and tube feet white to pale green.Sea Urchins and Sand DollarsSea urchins and sand dollars are members of the echinodermgroup known as the Echinoida. Members of this class arecharacterized by having the body enclosed inside of a rigidtest composed of calcium carbonate. The cleaned tests ofurchins and sand dollars are frequently found by beachexplorers. The outside of the test is covered with long to shortstiff spines. These spines are what give the urchins theircommon name, from the French word for ‘hedgehog’.Sand dollars are echinoids that are generally flattened andhave very short spines giving them a ‘fuzzy’ appearancewhen alive. These tiny spines are used to move the sanddollar through the sand and also to transport food particles tothe mouth on the underside.165

Strongylocentrotus purpuratus – Purple sea urchinLarge urchin, test rarely reaching 10 cm in diameter. Typically light to darkpurple. Longest spines usually shorter than height of test. Exposed coast only.Strongylocentrotus fragilis – Pink sea urchinThis deep water (Usually deeper than 300 feet) sea urchin has extremelyfragile spines and test. The color ranges from light purple to pale pink.Brisaster latifrons – Heart urchinThis distinctive urchin is found in areas with thick, fine mud. This speciesis always subtidal, and most common below 1,000 feet. Test very fragile.Dendraster excentricus – Pacific sand dollarCommon species on exposed sandy beaches. Usually buried, often withedge partially visible. Only intertidal sand dollar found in SE Alaska.

Pyura haustor – Warty tunicateCommon low intertidal and subtidal species. Siphons ~1/2 total height ofbody. Tunic warty and pink to red. Often encrusted with other organisms.Photo by Paul NorwoodHalocynthia aurantium – Sea peachThis very large (> 10 cm) sea squirt is narrowest at the base. Tuniciridescent pink to orange. Rarely low intertidal, common subtidal species.Halocynthia igaboja – Sea hedgehogA common subtidal species, immediately recognizable by the abundant,long bristle-like hairs covering the tunic. Color typically light to dark brown.Tunicates – Subphylum UrochordataMost people are surprised to learn that these unusual animalsbelong to the phylum Chordata, the same phylum as fish andother vertebrates (including humans!). The relationship ismade obvious when the larvae are examined as these have anotochord and head, and resemble a small fish. The larvaesettle and permanently attach to the substrate and lose mostof the obvious chordate characters.Commonly known as tunicates or sea squirts, these animalsmay be solitary or colonial. Colonial species are especiallydifficult to identify in the field. For this section I relied heavilyon the photos and identifications by Paul Norwood of theSitka Sealife Center.167

Cnemidocarpa finmarkiensis - Broadbase tunicateResembles a small sea peach (previous page) but is usually wider thantall, and widest at base. Very common low intertidal species.Boltenia villosa – Spiny-headed tunicateThe nearly round, spiny body and short to long stalk identify this commonlow intertidal and subtidal species. Often attached to tube worms.Styela coriacea – Leathery tunicateCommon low intertidal and subtidal species. The orange tunic is coveredin pointed warts. Body rounded when contracted, tall when expanded.Styela truncata – Cone shaped tunicateDistinguished by the tall outline, widest at base and short siphons 168 . Tunicorange to red and wrinkled. Low intertidal and subtidal on outer coast

Corella inflata – Brooding transparent tunicateCommon intertidal and subtidal species. Flattened transparent tunic isdistinct. C. willmeriana is very similar but lives in deeper water.Chelyosoma productum – Flattop sea squirtThe semi-transparent tunic and flattened top of this tunicate make itunmistakable. Common low intertidal and subtidal species.Metandrocarpa taylori - Orange social tunicateThis low intertidal and subtidal species forms groups of small (< 0.5 cm)individuals connected by short stolons. Orange to red in color.Distaplia occidentalis – Mushroom compound tunicateUnlike most local compound tunicates, this species is attached 169 to thesubstrate by a narrow stalk. Purple, yellow, or orange in color.

Distaplia smithi - Paddle ascidianFound in the lowest intertidal and subtidal on the outer coast. The yellowzooids in a nearly opaque paddle-shaped tunic are distinctive.Ritterella pulchra - Orange lobed tunicateCommon in the low intertidal throughout SE Alaska, this species formsgroups of 1-2 cm smooth orange lobes, each containing many large zooids.Aplidium californicum – Sea porkThis species forms large, thick sheets on rocks in the low intertidal. Highlyvariable in color, there are several related species in SE Alaska.Compound TunicatesAs the name implies, these tunicates typically have severalindividuals attached to each other and surrounded by a unitedtunic. Identification of these can be extremely difficult, and idsshould be considered tentative (at best!) in the field. I havetried to include some of the more common and/or distinctspecies, but expect to find others not included.Compound tunicates have attracted a great deal of attentionbecause of the confirmed presence of several invasivespecies in SE Alaska. These invasives have the potential todo a great deal of damage to native flora and fauna as well asdamage commercial shellfish farms. It is, however, importantto recognize that there are a large number of common,indigenous species in SE Alaska that could be mistaken forthe invasive species.170

Photo by Paul NorwoodEudistoma molle - Red-dotted compound tunicateMost often found around surfgrasses on the outer coast. The red-orangeto red zooids are embedded in a partially transparent tunic.Botrylloides violaceous – Chain tunicateThe zooids of this species generally grow in clearly-defined rows. Mostoften bright orange in color. This is an invasive species in AlaskaBotryllus schlosseri – Golden star tunicateThe zooids of this invasive species are organized into distinct star-likepatterns. Dark purple gray to yellow, commonly bright orange in color.Didemnum vexillum – Marine vomitLarge irregular sheets of this tunicate can completely cover 171 man-madeobjects around harbors. This is an invasive species in Alaska.

Eptatretus deani – Black hagfish or “slime eel”A deepwater species that burrows into the body cavity of fish, especiallythose on longlines. Also a scavenger. Produces quantities of thick mucous.Hydrolagus colliei – Spotted ratfishCommon in some areas as bycatch in sport and commercial fisheries.Spine on dorsal fin gives painful sting. Only chimaera in Alaska.Entosphenus tridentatus – Pacific lampreyThe most common and largest lamprey found in marine waters (most areunder 30 cm in length). Eel-like body and ring of teeth in mouth are distinct.The fishes – Subphylum VertebrataThe marine waters of Alaska support an amazing diversity offishes. Currently, there are about 500 documented species ofmarine fishes found in Alaska. Fish are classified into threelarge groups, the Agnatha (jawless fishes), Chondrichthys(sharks, rays, and chimaeras), and the Osteichthys (bonyfishes). Hagfish and lampreys are predators and parasites ofother fish. Lacking jaws, these are living representatives of anancient group with fossils going back over 500 million years.As this guide is intended primarily as a seashore guide, Iwanted to focus on those commonly encountered in theintertidal or shallow subtidal. I also included some of thebetter-known sport fish and commercially important speciesas these are commonly seen by many people. Finally, Iincluded a few of the many “weird wonders”, those speciesthat are just too unique and amazing to leave out! 172

Raja binoculata – Big skateThe most commonly encountered skate in SE Alaska. Spotting on bodydistinct. Egg cases occasionally washed ashore.Bathyraja parmifera – Alaskan skateOne of a large group of skates known as ‘soft-nosed skates’. Eye socketswith half-ring of small thorns, and row of larger thorns down entire body.Raja rhina – Longnose skateAnother common skate, longnoses tend to occur in deeper water than bigskates. Underside dark. The long pointed snout and color patter are distinct.Sharks, skates, and Chimaeras: TheCartilaginous Fishes: Class ChondrichthyesWhile relatively low in number of species, cartilaginous fishes maybe numerically abundant in certain areas of SE Alaska. Unlike thebony fishes, the skeleton of these fish is mainly cartilage.The small Pacific spiny dogfish is the most often seen shark in SEAlaska. Two other species are occassionaly encountered, thesalmon shark (Lamna ditropis) and the Pacific sleeper shark(Somnosius pacificus). Both of these species are usually caught asbycatch in the longline, seine, or trawl fisheries.Skates are typically seen as bycatch by sport and commercialfishermen. The big skate (Raja binoculata) is the largest and mostcommon species. There are many other smaller species that maybe common.173173

Bathyraja aleutica – Aleutian skateA deepwater species commonly seen as bycatch in the sablefish fishery.Pale color and continuous row of thorns on back are distinctive features.Squalus suckleyi – Pacific spiny dogfishA common small (usually < 1 meter) shark usually seen as bycatch incommercial and sport fisheries. Spines on front of both dorsal fins distinct.Somnosius pacificus – Pacific sleeper sharkThis large (3-5 meter) shark is considered a pest on longline gear as theyboth feed on caught fish and get severely tangled.. Very soft bodied.174Lamna ditropis – Salmon sharkRelated to the great white shark, salmon sharks have a similar appearance 174and can regulate their body temperature. No known attacks on humans..

Oligocottus maculosus – Tidepool sculpinVery common in upper to mid intertidal tide pools. Tolerant of temperatureand salinity changes. Dark saddles on back and white cirri are distinctive.Leptocottus armatus – Staghorn sculpinThe large pectoral fins with yellow bars are distinctive. Preopercle curved withantler-like spinules. Head without spines or cirri. Tolerant of brackish water.Oligocottus snyderi - Fluffy sculpinVariable in color, the fluffy sculpin is commonly bright green in color. “fluffy”hair-like cirri on head. Preopercle spine bifid, chin commonly spotted white.The fishes – Subphylum VertebrataThe marine waters of Alaska support an amazing diversity offishes. Currently, there are about 500 documented species ofmarine fishes found in Alaska. Fish are classified into threelarge groups, the Agnatha (jawless fishes), Chondrichthys(sharks, rays, and chimaeras), and the Osteichthys (bonyfishes).As this guide is intended primarily as a seashore guide, Iwanted to focus on those commonly encountered in theintertidal or shallow subtidal. I also included some of thebetter-known sport fish and commercially important speciesas these are commonly seen by many people. Finally, Iincluded a few of the many “weird wonders”, those speciesthat are just too unique and amazing to leave out!175

Hemilepidotus hemilepidotus – Red Irish lordLarge intertidal to subtidal sculpin characterized by 4-5 rows of scalesaround base of dorsal fin. Underside of ‘throat’ with distinct polka-dots.Hemilepidotus jordani – Yellow Irish lordAs the common name implies, the yellow Irish lord is often mottled withpale to bright yellow. Unlike the red Irish lord, lacks polka dots on throat.Hemilepidotus spinosus – Brown Irish lordDistinct band of 6-8 scales in row around base of dorsal fin. Low intertidaland shallow subtidal. Less common in SE than the red Irish lord.Sculpins - Superfamily CottoideaDouble-ugly or double awesome?Few fish in Alaska are as maligned as are the sculpins. Called“double-uglies” or “bullheads”, most people encounter sculpinsas unwanted bycatch while fishing. Small species like thetidepool sculpin are abundant in tidepools throughout SE Alaska.Because they are primarily ambush predators, many sculpins arebeautifully camouflaged and easily missed.The superfamily Cottoidea contains four families of sculpins aswell as the closely related poachers. With almost 100 species inAlaska, sculpins can be a challenge to identify. Features to lookfor are the presence and location of cirri (hair-like structures),presence or absence of scales and spines, and the shape andstructure of the upper preopercle spine. When handled this spineis often extended outward from sides of head near gill opening.176

Clinocottus acuticeps – Sharpnose sculpinCommon intertidal species. Similar to tidepool sculpin but preoperclespine with single curved tip instead of bifid. Variable color.Clinocottus embryum – Calico sculpinUnlike the tipepool or sharpnose sculpins, the cirri on top of head are inbushy clusters. Color variable, often gold, green, pink, or bright red.Myoxocephalus polyacanthocephalus – Great sculpinA very large species, commonly over 50 cm in length. Preopercle spinelong and straight. Commonly enters crab pots. Intertidal to deep subtidal.Enophrys bison – Buffalo sculpinVery common in a variety of habitats. Juveniles often white headed, 177 adultscommonly gray headed. Long smooth preopercle spine.

Enophrys lucasi – Leister sculpinThe preopercle spine has numerous sharp spinules. Bony projection fromupper jaw squared at end. Low intertidal and subtidal, rocky areas.Enophrys diceraus – Antlered sculpinThe preopercle spine has numerous sharp spinules. Bony projection fromupper jaw forked at end. Low intertidal and subtidal, rocky areas.Gymnocanthus pistilliger – Threaded sculpinA shallow water sculpin occasionally caught by anglers. Males haveelongate, thread-like pelvic fin rays. Opercle spine with 1-4 small spines.Triglop macellus – Roughspine sculpinCommon subtidal species occasionally caught by shallow-water 178 anglers.Long thin body is distinctive as are the black bars on fins.

Artedius fenestralis – Padded sculpinResembles a small red Irish lord, but Artedius species have cirri alonglateral line. Common low intertidal sculpin.Artedius harringtoni – Scalyhead sculpinA common, bright-colored species in the low intertidal and subtidal.Variable in color, the eyes nearly always with radiating bars.Jordania zonope – Longfin sculpinThis beautiful sculpin is immediately recognizable by the very long cirri onthe head. Found in rocky areas, often on boulders in the shallow subtidal.Synchirus gilli – Manacled sculpinCommon but easily overlooked, this small sculpin is found almost 179 exclusivelyin near-shore kelp canopies where they swim around the fronds.

Blepsias cirrhosus - Silverspotted sculpinA common species, especially around eelgrass beds. One of Alaska’s moststriking sculpins, the long cirri on jaw and unique coloration are distinct.Nautichthys oculofasciatus – Sailfin sculpinThe common name of this beautiful fish comes from the very tall dorsal finthat can be raised as a display. Common in eelgrass and kelp beds.Blepsias bilobus - Crested sculpinJuveniles of this species often hide among the tentacles of jellyfish,apparently immune to the stings . The very large pectoral fins are distinct.The diversity of sculpinsDespite their superficial similarities, the sculpins on this andthe next page are actually members of different families thanare the “cottid” or true sculpins. As mentioned previously,there are four families of sculpins in the superfamilyCottoidea. These are the Cottidae (true sculpins), theHemitripteridae (sailfin sculpins), the Rhamphocottidae (gruntsculpins), and the Psychrolutidae (fathead sculpins).The fifth member of this superfamily are the poachers, familyAgonidae, discussed in the next section. It is no surprise thatwith such a diverse group of animals many of our species arepoorly known. It is highly likely that careful searching willreveal species either unknown to science or not known fromAlaskan waters.180

Hemitripterus bolini – Bigmouth sculpinThis large sculpin is well named – the huge mouth is filled with rows of smallbut sharp-pointed teeth. Like many sculpins these are ambush predators.Rhamphocottus richardsoni – Grunt sculpinCommon in the shallow subtidal, this amazing sculpin prefers to live insidethe empty shells of giant barnacles. Pectoral fins with mostly free rays.Psychrolutes paradoxus – Tadpole sculpinThis unusual sculpin is found in the lowest intertidal zone and in theshallow subtidal. The slick, loose skin is lacking scales or spines.Psychrolutes sigalutes – Soft sculpinThis sculpin closely resembles the intertidal snailfishes (pg 151) 181 but lacksthe “sucker” on the underside. The body is very soft, nearly gelatinous.

Agonopsis vulsa – Northern spearnose poacherCommon on sandy bottoms, especially around eelgrass beds in the lowintertidal. Cirri under snout are white, unlike the sturgeon poacher (right).Pallasina barbata - Tubenose poacherThis poacher is very long and skinny. Similar to the unrelated tubesnouts,the barbel on the lower lip is distinct. Common in eelgrass beds .Podothecus acipenserinus – Sturgeon poacherThis common shallow subtidal species has distinctive yellow cirri(“whiskers”) under snout. Despite resemblance, not related to sturgeons!Family Agonidae – The PoachersThis strange group of fish are close relatives of the sculpins.Unlike typical sculpins, the body of poachers is covered withbony plates which give them a somewhat primordialappearance. Many species have horns or spines on theplates giving them a dragon or lizard-like quality.Poachers are found in a variety of habitats and are quitediverse in Alaska with over 20 species known. Manypoachers have few to many long cirri extending from thelower jaw. These cirri are sometimes called “whiskers” andtheir exact function is not known. Poachers feed mainly onamphipods and other small crustaceans and have relativelysmall mouths.182

Leptagonus frenatus – Sawback poacherThe white cirri around the mouth and the dark brown fins help to separatethis species from the similar sturgeon poacher (previous page).Hypsagonus quadricornis – Fourhorned poacherThis subtidal species has been observed using its pectoral fins as ‘hands’to lift objects while searching for prey.Agonomalus mozinoi – Kelp poacherA rare intertidal and shallow subtidal species only recently confirmed inAlaska. Found in rocky areas on the outer coast.Bothragonus swanii - RockheadThis bizarre fish has a unique triangular head with a dorsal pit. 183 Found inrocky tidepools on the outer coast. Head extremely well armoured.

Aulorhynchus flavidus – TubesnoutAbundant in eelgrass. Resembles the unrelated tubenose poacher but lacksthe chin barbel and has much smaller pectoral fins. May form large schools.Syngnathus leptorhynchus – Bay pipefishClosely related to seahorses, pipefish are common in eelgrass beds. Likeseahorses, males brood embryos in a special pouch. Superb camouflage.Sebastes caurinus – Copper rockfishA shallow-water rockfish, juveniles may be common in eelgrass and kelpbeds. Mottled pink, copper, and brown color distinct.Sebastes maliger – Quillback rockfishAnother shallow-water rockfish, the quillback is similar to the 184 copper, buttends to be darker. Adults very deep-bodied with tall dorsal fin.

Sebastes melanops – Black rockfishThis common species is a favorite with young anglers. Generally darkgray with lighter underside. May form large schools near shore.Sebastes pinniger– Canary rockfishThe white stripe and orange cheek stripes make this common speciesimmediately recognizable. Juvenile yelloweye (pg. 148) have two white stripesSebastes nebulosus – China rockfishArguably the most beautiful of Alaska’s rockfishes, the China rockfish hasa blue-black body with striking yellow to white spots and blotches.The Rockfishes – Family ScorpaenidaeA diverse family in Alaska with over 30 species. Because ofthe similar overall body shape of most local species,identification relies on more subtle features such as numberand position of spines, counts of fin rays, and color patternsof fins and body. Some species require detailed counts ofseveral anatomical features for reliable identification.Like all members of their family, the dorsal and anal fin spinesof rockfishes have a toxic mucous covering that can causequite painful stings to the unwary handler. The degree oftoxicity seems to be variable and ranges from mild itching atpuncture site to severe swelling accompanied by a fever. It islikely that individual people are more or less sensitive to thetoxins and that some species (or even individual rockfishes)vary in toxicity. Take home message – handle with care!185

Sebastes helvomaculatus – Rosethorn rockfishThe large white to pink spots on the side of this common rockfish make itunmistakable. Common as bycatch in longline fisheries..Sebastes wilsoni – Pygmy rockfishThis small (20 cm) rockfish has a small to moderate symphyseal knob. One ofour few rockfishes with the 2 nd spine of anal fin much larger than 3 rd .Sebastes crameri – Darkblotched rockfishDeep bodied fish with dorsal blotches extending to below lateral line.Specimen shown is a juvenile, adults with dark mouths.Which rockfish is that?The correct identification of many of Alaska’s rockfishes canbe a challenge, even for experts. Some species have suchunique characters that they can be easily identified on sight.Unfortunately many of our rockfishes are not like that. In thisguide I am merely demonstrating the diversity of this group, itis recommended that you search for one of the manyexcellent guides that deal specifically with rockfishes for amore formal identification.On the following page I show a few examples of the importantfeatures for identification. This is by no means exhaustive,serious workers will count the spines on every fin, the numberand strength of the head spines, count gill rakers, count thenumber of scales on the lateral line, and even examine thecolor of the body cavity!186

Prominent Moderate Small or absentSmaller than orequal to 3rdMuch larger than3rdSymphyseal Knob (“chin”)2 nd Spine on Anal FinSpot or blotch Striped None (no markings)Above lateral lineAbove and below lateral lineCheek Color PatternDorsal BlotchesSmallLargeWhite or gray Red IndistinctMouth SizeLateral Line color187

Sebastes emphaeus – Puget Sound rockfishOne of the smallest rockfishes, reaching 18 cm in length. May resemblejuvenile redstripes (pg. 150) but lack symphyseal knob.Sebastes flavidus – Yellowtail rockfishThe gray to olive-brown body and yellow fin margins are distinctive. Oftenwith irregular row of light blotches on sides near dorsal fin.Sebastes brevispinus – Silvergray rockfishThe very large mouth and prominent symphyseal knob are distinct. Thedark body with white to pink belly are unique features.Sebastes polyspinis – Northern rockfishThis is the only local rockfish with 14 dorsal fin spines (instead 188 of 13).Lower portion of pectoral fins abruptly white or yellow (see inset).

Sebastes ruberrimus – Yelloweye rockfish or red snapperThis large deepwater rockfish is the target of an important commercialfishery. Large individuals are over 100 years old!Sebastes aleutianus – Rougheye rockfishA large rockfish, often over 70 cm. Row of sharp spines under eyesocket. Fins commonly tipped with black. No spots on dorsal fin.Sebastes melanostictus – Blackspotted rockfishVery similar to the rougheye, this species nearly always has small darkspots on dorsal fin (see inset). Formerly considered variant of rougheye.Sebastes borealis – Shortraker rockfishThis pink to orange-pink rockfish is one of the largest species of Sebastes. Theclub-tipped gill rakers and lack of spines under the eyes are distinct features.189

Sebastes nigrocinctus – Tiger rockfishThe five thin vertical brown to red bars on the sides of this rockfish make itunmistakable. Common bycatch in yelloweye fishery.Sebastes babcocki – Redbanded rockfishThe only other local rockfish with vertical stripes, unlike the tiger has fourwide stripes .Common bycatch in longline fisheries.Sebastes ciliatus – Dark rockfishSimilar to the dusky rockfish (right), the dusky rockfish is uniformly olivebrownto nearly black. Formerly considered the dark form of the dusky.Sebastes variabilis – Dusky rockfishThis highly variable rockfish is similar to the dark (left) but commonly 190 hasa peach, yellow, or white colored belly, especially under the tail.

Sebastes alutus – Pacific Ocean perch or “P.O.P.”This small but abundant rockfish is the target of a valuable fishery in theGulf of Alaska. No dark blotches below lateral line.Sebastes variegatus – Harlequin rockfishSimilar to the POP (left) the harlequin nearly always has a red-tipped tail.Also dark blotches below lateral line and 2 nd spine of anal fin larger than 3rdSebastes proriger – Redstripe rockfishAnother rockfish very similar to the POP (above). Red lateral line borderedby green-brown blotches is distinctive as is white at base of anal fin spines.191Sebastolobus alascensis – Shortspine thornyhead or idiotUnlike rockfishes of the genus Sebastes, thornyheads have a row ofheavy thorns on their cheeks. Common bycatch in longline fisheries.

Hexagrammos stelleri – White spotted greenlingUnlike other local greenlings, this species usually has abundantroundwhite spots on body and silver sheen. Common in eelgrass beds.Hexagrammos decagrammus – Kelp greenlingUsually subtidal, the kelp greenling is common in a variety of habitats.Male (shown) with blue spots, female light with small gold or orange spots.Greenlings – Family HexagrammidaeThis small family of fishes is well represented in Alaska withseven species out of twelve worldwide. Typically greenlingshave multiple lateral lines and at least one pair of cirri abovethe eyes. The well-known lingcod has a single lateral line butdoes have the cirri.Two of greenlings in Alaska are the targets of a valuablecommercial fishery, the lingcod and the Atka mackerel (bothon next page). The kelp greenling is considered good eatingand is a part of Alaska’s recreational sport fishery. The fleshof greenlings is sometimes green, however this color isharmless and turns white when cooked.Hexagrammos octogrammus - Masked greenlingSimilar to the kelp greenling, this species has a single pair of cirri (insteadone two) and red eyes (instead of yellow) . Common in rocky areas.192

Hexagrammos lagocephalus – Rock greenlingMales (shown) of this species are strikingly colored. Females similar tomasked greenlings (previous page) but with a very long lateral line four.Oxylebius pictus – Painted greenlingAn outer coast species found in the shallow subtidal around rocks andalgae. Pointed snout and red-brown vertical bars are distinct.Ophiodon elongatus – LingcodThis greenling is a voracious predator and is the largest species in family.Juveniles sometimes intertidal eelgrass, adults subtidal on rocky reefs.Pleurogrammos monopterygius – Atka mackeralThis beautiful fish is often shades of yellow, with dark vertical stripes. 193 Onlygreenling in Alaska with strongly forked tail. Commercially important species.

Eumicrotremis orbis – Pacific spiny lumpsuckerThis bizarre fish is nearly spherical in shape and covered in pointed bonyspines. Usually subtidal, juveniles occasionally found in tidepools.Gobiesox maeandricus – Northern clingfishFound in the low intertidal in rocky areas of the outer coast. Similar to theunrelated snailfishes, the flattened round head is distinctive.Aptocyclus ventricosus - Smooth lumpsuckerThis large species is rarely seen, although occasionally caught indeepwater crab and shrimp pots. Round, smooth body is distinctive..Lumpsuckers, snailfish, and clingfishAll three of the families represented on this page and the nexthave their pelvic fins modified to form a suction disk that theyuse to adhere to the substrate. Lumpsuckers (familyCyclopteridae) and snailfish (family Liparidae) are closelyrelated families. Clingfish (family Gobiesocidae) are related tothe true gobies, such as the blackeye goby (Page 155).The snailfishes are an extremely diverse group with 56species recorded in Alaska. Many of these are deepwater andpoorly known, but there are a few intertidal species andothers seen in crab and shrimp pots. A few snailfish speciesare parasitic in king crabs and use a specialized ovipositor tolay their eggs inside the branchial chambers of the crabs!194

Liparis florae - Tidepool snailfishOne of several small snailfishes common in the intertidal zone. Upper andlower jaws with scalloped margins, lips white . Usually 10 cm or less.Liparis mucosus – Slimy snailfishA common and extremely variable species. May be yellow, green, red, orpink. Often with fine dark lines. Starburst pattern around eyes typical.Liparis callyodon – Spotted snailfishA small intertidal species distinguished by the green , purple, or yellowbrowncolor with abundant tiny black spots. Fins often barred.Liparis gibbus – Variegated snailfishA large, subtidal snailfish commonly exceeding 30 cm. Extremely 195 variablein color and color pattern. Common in crab and shrimp pots.

Careproctus rastrinus – Salmon snailfishThis bizarre gelatinous fish is occasionally caught in crab or shrimp pots.These common exceed 30 cm. in length. Pink color and blue eyes are distinct.Icosteus aenigmaticus – RagfishThis huge (over 2 meters) deep-sea fish occasionally washes ashore tothe surprise of beachcombers. Body is extremely soft and flabby.Alepidosaurus ferox – Longnose lancetfishAnother deepwater fish that occasionally washes ashore on the outer coast,These metallic-silver fish resemble barracuda but with a large sail fin.Nannobrachium regale - Pinpont lampfishIncluded as an example of the family Myctophidae, the lantern fishes. 196 This grouphas photophores that glow in the dark. Important forage for fish and sea mammals.

Rhinogobiops nicholsii – Blackeye gobyCommon on the outer coast, these territorial fish can be seen aroundrocky areas. The black spot on front of dorsal fin is distinctiveAnoplopoma fimbria – Sablefish or blackcodA valuable commercial species, sablefish are usually caught by longline,bottom trawl, or pots. Unlike true cods these do not have a barbel.Erilepis zonifer – SkilfishAn offshore species, juveniles are occasionally seen in the SE inside sablefishfishery. Adults lose the white stripes and reach 1.8 meters in length.Cymatogaster aggregata – Shiner perchThe only common surfperch found in Alaska, this species may be 197 abundantin outer coast eelgrass beds. Males dark during breeding season.

Anoplarchus purpurescens – Cockscomb pricklebackLocally called “blennies” or “eels” these are neither. Abundant under midto low intertidal rocks, crest equally as tall from snout to back of head.Poroclinus rothrocki – Whitebarred pricklebackA deepwater species, whitebarred pricklebacks are usually seen as preyitems in fish stomachs. The coloration is distinctive.Anoplarchus insignis – Slender cockscombGenerally less common than A. purpurescens in our region. Usually withdistinct white band at base of caudal fin. Crest low toward front of snout.Pricklebacks, gunnels, wolf-eels, andgraveldivers: Suborder ZoarcoideiThis diverse group of fish are characterized by an elongate,eel-like body shape. This similarity is reflected in the commonnames of several species in this group. They are not closelyrelated to the true eels.The pricklebacks and gunnels are familiar to most beachexplorers as they are often found under rocks at low tide.When looking at pricklebacks, look closely for the small, eerilysnake-like graveldivers. Wolf-eels are almost always subtidal,but juveniles are sometimes seen swimming at the surface. Inaddition to the intertidal families, this group also includes theless well known ronquils, eelpouts, and prowfishes.198

Xiphister atropurpureus – Black pricklebackThe dark red-brown to black body color and light-bordered darker stripesfrom eyes are distinctive. Usually outer coast in the low intertidal.Xiphister mucosus – Rock pricklebackA very large species often over 30 cm in length. Usually brown with yellowmottling. Found under rocks in the low intertidal and subtidal.Chirolophis decoratus – Decorated warbonnetImmediately recognizable by the tree-like cirri on head. Cirri between eyeslargest. Rarely low intertidal, common subtidal species.Chirolophis nugator – Mosshead warbonnetLike its relative the decorated warbonnet (previous page) the 199 head iscovered with cirri. The cirri are more numerous and of uniform length.

Lumpenus sagitta – Snake pricklebackA common species found in eelgrass beds, the tan body color with darkerspots and stripes is distinct. Commonly 30 cm or more in length.Stichaeus punctatus – Arctic shannyFound in the low intertidal and shallow subtidal. Less “eel-like” and more“fish-like” than other pricklebacks. Look for around seaweed-covered rocks.Pholis laeta – Crescent gunnelCommon in the low intertidal and subtidal. The patterns on the back aredistinct, although the fish themselves are variable in color.Apodichthys flavidus – Penpoint gunnelCommon in eelgrass beds and under rocks with thick algae 200 in the lowintertidal and subtidal. Stripe through eye is typical, color variable.

Anarrhichthys ocellatus – Wolf-eelA favorite of divers, the subtidal wolf-eel is usually found in rocky dens.Despite fearsome appearance wolf-eels are typically docile unless threatened.Scytalina cerdale – GraveldiverThis strange fish is common under rocks in the mid to lower intertidalzone. The somewhat triangular head resembles a snake’s head.Cryptacanthodes giganteus – Giant wrymouthThis very large (over 1 m) eel-like fish is occasionally hooked by anglers.Similar to a wolf-eel (above) but has eyes towards top of head and small teeth.Zaprora silenus – ProwfishThis unusual fish may reach a length of 1 meter. The large white 201 pores onthe head are distinctive, as are the large pectoral and caudal fisns.

Ronquilus jordani – Northern ronquilRonquils are common inhabitants of subtidal rocky areas. The brightyellow on the fin margins is distinctive for the northern ronquil.Bathymaster signatus – SearcherCommonly caught by anglers, the searcher is distinct in having a tancolored body and a vertical row of bright orange pores on cheek.Bathymaster caeruleofasciatus - Alaskan ronquilThe dark red-brown color with blue iridescence distinguishes this ronquilfrom the others. Juveniles sometimes common in tidepools, adults subtidal.Lycodes brevipes – Shortfin eelpoutEelpouts are a large family of subtidal fishes that are very 202 difficult toseparate. Unlike ronquils the dorsal and anal fins continue around the tail.

Gasterosteus aculeatus – Three-spined sticklebackThese minnow-like fish are found in both fresh and salt water. The threesharp dorsal fin rays are distinctive. Males build nests for eggs!Trichodon trichodon – SandfishThese burrowing fish have a distictive upturned mouth that is fringed withnumerous fleshy papillae that resemble teeth. Common on sandflats.Ammodytes hexapterus – Pacific sand lanceThese elongate fish are commonly found buried in intertidal sand or trappedin tidepools. Important forage fish for birds, fish, and sea mammals.Gadus macrocephalus – Pacific codA commercially important species, this cod is one of several 203 Alaskanspecies of Gadidae (cod and pollock). Chin barbel as long as eye diamter.

Gadus chalcogramma – Alaska or walleye pollockAlaska’s most valuable commercial fish and the target of the second largestfishery in the world. Barbel tiny and difficult to see, unlike Pacific cod..Microgadus proximus – Pacific tomcodA small species of cod, tomcod rarely exceed 30 cm (1’) in length. Barbelapproximately as long as pupil diameter of eye (compare to Pacific cod).Albatrossia pectoralis – Giant grenadier or rattailThese bizarre relatives of cod and pollock are sometimes abundant asbycatch in deepwater fisheries. Several similar species found locally.Coryphaenoides acrolepis – Pacific grenadierOnly grenadier found in Alaska that has the orbital rim (around 204 eyeball) isentirely black. Common as bycatch in sablefish fishery, especially offshore.

Savelinus malma – Dolly VardenA common species often fished for from shore. Distinguished by thepresence of numerous light colored spots on back and sides.Oncorhynchus keta – Chum or dog salmonRecognized by the lack of spots on back or tail and silver wash on tailrays, not membranes. Purple-red stripes on sides when in freshwater.Oncorhynchus gorbuscha – Pink salmon or humpySmallest of the Pacific salmon. Recognized by the large oval spots on tailfin and back. Males with large hump when in freshwater.Salmon and Chars: family SalmonidaeFew fish are better known in Alaska than are the salmon.Salmon are the target of an extremely valuable commercialharvest with an estimated 100 million fish caught per year. Inaddition to the commercial fishery, salmon are an importantpart of the subsistence and recreational fishery.There are five native species of salmon in Alaska. Therainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (not in this guide),belongs to the same genus as do salmon but is primarilyfreshwater. Sea-run rainbow trout are called steelhead. Theinvasive Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar (not in this guide), isstill infrequent in Alaska but closely watched. The DollyVarden is a char that is a favorite for beach anglers.

Oncorhynchus tshawytscha – King or Chinook salmonLargest of the Pacific salmon, commonly 70 cm or more. Numerous smallblack spots on back and tail , gums and inside of mouth are black.Oncorhynchus kisutch – Coho or silver salmonSmall spots on back. Unlike the similar king salmon, the coho has spotsonly on the upper lobe of the tail. Gums white to pink, with thin darkmargin.Oncorhynchus nerka – Sockeye or red salmonNo silver wash or spots on tail, tail dull slate gray. Typically 28 or more gillrakers per arch. Male with green head and red body when in freshwater .Chauliodus macouni – Pacific viperfishThis rarely seen but common deep water fish is recognizable by the 206 huge sharpteeth, hinged head, and glowing lure (not shown). Frightening, but small!

Thaleichthys pacificus - Eulachon, hooligan, or candlefishMembers of the smelt family, eulachon live offshore but move into rivers tospawn. Dried fish can be used as candles because of high oil content.Hypomesus pretiosus – Surf smeltAn abundant forage fish, surf smelts are found in salt or brackish waterbut rarely fresh. Mouth small, not reaching as far back as mid-eye.Clupea pallasii – Pacific herringTypically pelagic and offshore, group near shore when spawning and roemay cover rocks and vegetation in the intertidal. No adipose fin.Platichthys stellatus – Starry flounderAn extremely common shallow water flatfish. The presence of rough, 207 spinyscales on both sides and yellow and black bars on fins are distinctive.

Hippoglossus stenolepis - Pacific halibutAlways subtidal, this large (commonly over 1 meter) flatfish supports avaluable sport and commercial fishery. Tail shape distinct.Lepidopsetta bilineata – Southern rock soleThe lateral line of this species is arched high over the pectoral fin. The nearlyidentical northern rock sole (L. polyxtra) has 7 rather than 6 gill rakersAtheresthes stomias – Arrowtooth flounderOften confused with halibut, these large flounders have large, sharp teeth in thefront of their jaws. Not generally considered good eating due to mushy flesh.The Flatfishes: Families Pleuronectidaeand ParalichthyidaeThis group of fish are unusual in having their eyes on oneside of their body. For most of our species (familyPleuronectidae), the eye is usually on the right side. The leftside, called the “blind side” is typically white. The right side,called the “eyed side” is variable in color and often matchesthe substrate. Most flatfish will rest partially or wholly buried inthe sediment with only the eyes showing. Members of thefamily Paralichthyidae are called left-eyed flounders as theytypically lie with the right side down.The best known of Alaska’s flatfish is the Pacific halibut, agiant species usually found in deeper water. Halibut are oneof Alaska’s most important commercial species.208

Limanda aspera – Yellowfin soleFound in sandy areas, the fins become yellow in adults. Look for the thin, darkline at base of fins. Juveniles common around eelgrass beds in intertidal.Microstomus pacificus - Dover soleThese deepwater fish are considered good eating. The large body is softand extremely slippery. Common as bycatch in deepwater fisheries.Parophrys vetulus – English soleThe tail shape and elongate head help distinguish this common subtidalspecies. Color of adults often solid red-brown or olive brown.Citharicthys stigmaeus – Speckled sanddabOne the few local left-eyed flounders in our area. Pelvic fins 209 of sanddabsare not symmetrical. Common shallow water species.

Common Sea Life of Southeastern Alaska

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