An ecological study of the Basin Head sand dune system

The vegetational data obtained from the Basin Head sand dunes was subjected to cluster analysis which suggested that the following five communities were present: Ammophila breviligulata, Corema Conradii - Cladonia spp, Picea mariana, Vaccinium macrocarpon, Spartina patens — Carex paleacea. These communities occur as a result of plant zonation. The zonation depends on environmental factors rather than nutrient build-up in the soil. Ammophila breviligulata grows nearest the beach because it is tolerant to wind, salt spray, sand deposition, and sand abrasion. The Corema Conradii - Cladonia spp. are topographically sheltered and are suited to xeric conditions. Picea mariana is topographically sheltered by the foredunes on the south and also by Basin Head on the west. Vaccinium macrocarpon is topographically sheltered, and its proximity to the water table gives access to moisture and nutrients. The high salinity of the Spartina patens — Carex paleacea community enables survival only of salt-tolerant species. The first two communities are very fragile, while the third and fourth are relatively stable under present conditions. The fifth community is quite stable.