This book is a journey of discovery of the plant and animal communities that live along our coast from the sandy dunes to the clear blue green water. Many creatures live in that vital place where the bountiful ocean meets the land. The shallow sunlit waters provide the perfect environment for seagrass meadows and leafy algae gardens. These plants are the sheltering nurseries for larvae of countless marine species many of which become food for larger hungry fish, crustaceans, birds and land creatures. Our Australian shores are unsurpassed for their beauty and vast abundance of different creatures. Summer time swimmers at the edge of the water often have no idea of the life teeming in the water around their feet.



People too, are part of the complex interrelationship of all living things and the environment. Our survival depends on how well we conserve the system of life on Earth: the biosphere. In the last chapter we look at human ingenuity and some technologies and behaviours that are damaging the biosphere. We consider ways each of us can rethink our patterns of consumption to address these problems.



During 2013 and 2014 the author has worked with the, Years Six and Seven Seven River Ranger students at Ellenbrook Christian College and their inspired coordinator Cate McCullough, to observe and document the natural wonders of the coast. You are invited to learn about the animals and plants, that share the coast with us and rely on our life choices for their continued existence. Also available in print format.



This book covers: The Essential Biologiclal Science Concepts, Science as Human Endeavour and Science Enquiry Skills within the Australian primary school curriculum. The Cross Curiculum Priority of Sustainability is the underpinning theme of this book.