Protected habitat

Figure 6. Sheltered by the high dunes, a maritime forest has begun to grow. (Photograph by the author. More about the photograph)

Figure 6 shows you an example of the protection system discussed on the previous page. The live oak on the left side of this photograph is growing in the lee of the sand dune in the background. This dune actually curves around to the left of the tree as well. This curved dune forces wind from the ocean to rise above it and therefore above the tree, as well. Protected from the wind and salt spray, the tree flourishes, and as it grows, its leaves add organic matter to the sand — thereby preparing it to support other forest plants even less well adapted to barrier island habitats than live oaks. Note also that cedars, pines, and other live oaks are growing in the lee of this same dune. What we have here is the beginning of a maritime forest.

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