Late summer is a perfect time to step outside and explore the natural sciences all around us, especially along the shores of Long Beach, where unique coastal ecosystems offer something new to discover with every tide.
Moon Jellyfish in Long Beach
Have you seen the moon jellies in Long Beach? Moon Jellies are abundant in the summer months when water reaches warmer temperatures. They can be seen in harbors and coves, feeding on zooplankton, fish eggs, larvae, and cladocerans.
More facts about moon jellyfish: https://www.seadocsociety.org/moon-jellyfish-facts?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Watch Moon Jellies Live: https://www.youtube.com/live/IEGYa3FlY1s?si=wayU9dZOnqtiZXWl
Last of the season Grunion Runs
The final grunion spawning runs happen in early August during the full and new moon tides. The silvery fish, unique to Southern California and Northern Baja come ashore at night to lay eggs. These remarkable runs occur on specific nights and are visible on many Southern California beaches including Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro.
Learn more about grunions: https://wildlife.ca.gov/Fishing/Ocean/Grunion
Bioluminescence: Glowing Waves!
In late summer, coastal waters warm up and may trigger algal blooms, sometimes leading to bioluminescence (glowing waves at night). Long Beach is one of the beaches in Southern California where you can see this phenomena happen.
Link to Article: https://secretlosangeles.com/bioluminescence-beach-california/
Sea Shell STEM activity
Learn about seashells and their chemical reactions through this hands on STEM activity!
