surface parallel to the surface of a deposition of sediment. In shales, the rocks split along the bedding plane; in some sandstones however, the split is marked by changes in colour and grain size.

a meeting to inform the public about plans that may affect them, in order to obtain feedback. For the establishment of marine reserves it is important that people give their support. People oppose a m [..]

concentration of salt in water, usually measured in parts per thousand (ppt). Seawater salinity is about 37 or 3.7%.

(Gk: tettares= four; phyton= plant) a spore-producing thallus (Gk: thallos= green shoot) in the life history of some red algae in which the sporangia, called tetrasporangia, produce tetrads (clusters [..]

an area in which animals spend the winter.

(anal= relating to anus) single, unpaired fin positioned on the undersurface of a fish between the anus and the tail.

(Gk: karpos= fruit; spora= spore; phyton= plant) a small spore-producing phase in the life cycle of some red algae, developing directly from the female gametophyte following fertilisation. It is often [..]

the bits of the land above water. Usually it refers to the marine environment that becomes apparent during low tides. Often the underwater world can be predicted by looking at the emergent bits. It re [..]

(L: equi=equal; noce=night) the time when the length of day equals night. The vernal equinox is on 21 March, and the autumnal equinox about 22 September.

(Gk: hieros= sacred; arkhes= ruler) a system in which grades or classes of status or authority are ranked one above the other, as in organisations, governments, religions. Being able to rank objects i [..]