Photobiont

The photosynthetic partner in a lichen. This is usually a green alga or a cyanobacterium that produces food for the entire organism through photosynthesis (using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide). 

MMO

Marine Management Organisation

Sublittoral

The area of the sea just below the low tide mark.

Sediment

Small pieces of rock, sand, mud, or organic material that settle at the bottom of rivers, lakes, or the sea.

Sandeel

A small, slender fish that looks a bit like an eel.

Ocean acidification

When the ocean becomes more acidic because it absorbs extra carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air.

Mean low water

The average height of the low tides at a particular place, measured over a long period of time.

Intertidal

The area of the shore that is covered by water at high tide and exposed to air at low tide.

Haul-out

When seals leave the water and come onto land or rocks to rest, sleep or give birth.

Ghost netting

Fishing nets that have been lost or abandoned in the ocean.