Research Day 2025 Arctic University Museum in Tromsø, Norway
The UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Marine Biodiversity, organized a day at the intertidal in Tromsø together with the Arctic University Museum of Norway.
Exploring the intertidal zone, where the land meets the sea, is a unique and valuable experience for youth, kids, and families. This fascinating ecosystem, exposed at low tide and submerged at high tide, is full of life and offers endless opportunities to learn and connect with nature. For kids and youth, seeing creatures like crabs, sea stars, and anemones up close sparks curiosity and a deeper understanding of marine life. It is a hands-on way to learn about the environment that goes beyond books and screens.
For families, it is a chance to bond and create memories while enjoying the beauty of the coast. Spending time outdoors together provides a much-needed break and helps everyone reconnect with nature. Exploring the intertidal zone also fosters environmental awareness. Seeing how marine life depends on the tides and how pollution impacts these habitats helps kids and families understand the importance of protecting the environment and inspires them to take action.
Walking along the shore, climbing rocks, and wading in tidepools are fun ways to stay active, while being in nature reduces stress and boosts well-being. Exploring local beaches also helps families appreciate the wonders of their own community and shows that adventure can be found close to home.
A single trip to the intertidal zone can inspire a lifelong love for nature and even spark an interest in conservation or science. It is more than just a fun outing—it is a chance to connect with nature, learn, and create meaningful memories. The intertidal zone is full of wonder and is waiting to be explored.
"To protect the natural environment around us, we need to feel empathy or concern for it, we need to know about it", says Andreas Altenburger, lead of the Arctic Marine Biodiversity Thematic Network.