On a clear night, the bright lights of oil platforms sparkle in the Gulf of Mexico. Thousands of these platforms off the coasts of Texas and Louisiana play an important role in the lives of underwater species who find food, shelter, and permanent homes in the ecosystem created by these big, three-dimensional structures standing on the flat sea floor. They may also play lesser-known roles "above the waves" in the migration of birds and even insects....

"This publication describes major habitats along the Texas coast and identifies the plants-the foundation of the food web-to be found in each. The plants and animals of the coastal zone are special, having adapted to wind, salt, and sand in an environment that is frequently flooded. They are survivors. For those willing to explore beyond the hotels, restaurants, and amusement parks that are part of the coastal landscape, a variety of beautiful and...