The goal of this visit is to conduct follow-up surveys for a project previously conducted on Dana Point investigating predation patterns and impacts of the whelk Mexacanthina lugubris. Activities consist of an observational survey of acorn barnacles (Balanus sp. and Chthamalus sp.) on California mussels (Mytilus californianus) and the dark unicorn whelk (Mexacanthina lugubris). Two transects will be placed at 1m above mean lower low water and a 0.1 m^2 quadrat survey will be conducted along the quadrat. Within each quadrat, the percent coverage of acorn barnacles on mussels will be observed and recorded. Any Mexacanthina lugubris within a quadrat will also be observed and recorded. This is an observational study; disturbance would be limited to movement around the intertidal zone and the use of transects. No species will be taken from the site, and no hardware will be installed at the site. This data will be used to support previous analysis done for this project.

Approved