Estuaries

Estuaries are partially enclosed bodies of water formed where freshwater from rivers and streams flows into the ocean, mixing with salty seawater. These transitional areas between land and sea are protected from the full force of ocean waves, winds and storms by the promontories, islands, reefs and sandy spits that mark an estuary’s seaward boundary.

The sheltered, tidal waters of estuaries support unique communities of plants and animals, specially adapted for life at the margin of the sea. Estuarine environments are among the most productive on earth, producing more organic matter per year than equivalent areas of forest, grassland or agricultural land.

There are 2 estuaries on King Island: Sea Elephant Estuary and Yellow Rock Estuary

For more information please see: Sea Elephant Report & KINRM Review and Strategic Action Plan

Last Updated on 26 August 2021