S.C. Sea Grant Consortium
A salt marsh reflecting the sky at sunset.

Coastal Ecosystems and Natural History

Coastal South Carolina is a network of coastal uplands, near-shore islands, marshes, barrier islands and beaches, and riverine watersheds, waterways, and wetland. These systems support a wide range of ecosystem types and coastal and marine species.

The S.C. Sea Grant Consortium provides public information about the wise use and conservation of these unique habitats.

Native Species

A person flipping a stranded horseshoe crab.

Stranded Horseshoe Crabs

Horseshoe crabs can become stranded on the beach during rough weather. Learn about this native South Carolina species, how to identify when a stranded horseshoe crab is in danger, and how to help.

Salt Marsh Ecosystem

Articles on South Carolina Natural History and Ecology