Resources of Pinellas County Aquatic Preserves

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	Archaeological Resources The earliest known inhabitants of Florida were from the Paleo-Indian Period which existed prior to 8,000 B.C. As large Pleistocene animals became extinct, the Indians became more dependent on small game. Shellfish became an important part of the diet and semi-permanent villages developed. The discarded shellfish resulted in large middens and portions of the middens left in now-sunken river channels in Tampa Bay date back to the Archaic Period (8,000 B.C. - 1,000 B.C.).
	Natural Communities The submerged lands of the preserves include both hard and soft bottom habitats, seagrass beds, and oyster reefs. The shoreline is protected by mangroves and salt marshes. Natural and spoil islands that are state-owned within the preserve boundaries are also managed as part of the preserves. There are freshwater marshes and swamps along Lake Tarpon and portions of Lake Seminole.
	Wildlife Two hundred and three species of fish can be found in the Pinellas County aquatic preserves, including many of commercial importance. Sea turtles occasionally nest on the beaches upland of the preserves and as well as numerous species of birds that use the mangroves as rookeries or for nesting. There are 16 species designated as endangered, threatened, rare, or of special concern within the preserves. Listed Species (pdf - 16 KB)

Last updated: July 07, 2011