The pattern of communities follows a classic vertical zonation of habitats from high marsh to submerged shoreline, each zone with its own spectrum of vegetation and invertebrates. Thousands of shorebirds visit the marsh and mudflats during annual migrations. At least two endangered bird species nest in the marsh. Kendall-Frost is a valuable example of habitats once common throughout Southern California estuaries. Coastal salt marshes are know to be areas of enormous biological productivity as well as prime real estate for urban development.
Mission Bay is a case in point.
The Kendall-Frost Mission Bay Marsh Reserve protects these wetland communities for research and teaching through the University of California's Natural Reserve System.