Invertebrates:
* Bivalves: Clams, oysters, mussels, and cockles burrow into the mud, filtering food from the water.
* Worms: Polychaete worms, lugworms, and other species live in burrows, aerating the mud and contributing to its fertility.
* Crustaceans: Crabs, shrimps, and fiddler crabs scuttle across the mud, feeding on algae, detritus, and other invertebrates.
* Snails: Mud snails, whelks, and other species graze on algae and detritus.
* Starfish: Some species of starfish feed on bivalves in mudflats.
* Sea anemones: Certain species live attached to rocks or shells in mudflats, capturing small prey.
Fish:
* Flounder: Flatfish like flounder lie camouflaged on the mud, waiting for prey.
* Eels: Some species of eel burrow in the mud and hunt for food.
* Mullet: These fish filter food from the water in mudflats.
* Goby: Small, bottom-dwelling fish that are common in mudflats.
Birds:
* Shorebirds: Willets, sandpipers, plovers, and other shorebirds flock to mudflats to feed on invertebrates.
* Herons: These wading birds hunt fish and crustaceans in mudflats.
* Ducks: Some species of ducks forage for food in mudflats.
Mammals:
* Otters: Sea otters sometimes forage for food in mudflats.
* Seals: Harbor seals may visit mudflats to rest and hunt for fish.
* Raccoons: Raccoons may venture onto mudflats in search of food.
Other:
* Plankton: Microscopic organisms that are the base of the food chain in mudflats.
* Algae: Diatoms, green algae, and other species grow on the mud surface, providing food for many animals.
Important Note:
The specific animals found in mudflats vary depending on factors like location, tidal range, and salinity.
Mudflats are vital ecosystems providing essential food and habitat for numerous animals. Their preservation is crucial for the health of coastal environments.