Filter feeders are found in all parts of the estuary. They are creatures that pull small bits of organic material, like plankton and larvae, from the water as it moves past them. Horseshoe crabs are one of the older inhabitants of coastal estuaries, living happily and largely unchanged for millions of years.

Boring Sponge

Oysters blanket the estuary floors in areas where they use foot secretions to cement themselves to the substrate. Not only are these oysters a rich food source for us, but they are also important food sources to many estuarine creatures. Predatory snails, including Oyster Drills, whelks, sponges, especially the Boring Sponges, and fish all find oysters a tasty treat.

Leidy's Comb Jelly is a jellyfish that eats oyster larvae.