High Dune Biodiversity - Coastal Interpretive Center

One way scientists measure biodiversity is by documenting the number of species in a region. High dune ecosystems in Ocean Shores are dynamic with blowing sand, severe winter storms and storm erosion, and heavy winter rains. These conditions make it difficult for most species to survive and thrive in the high dunes.

How many species live in the high dunes?

Scientists have not completed a survey of the biodiversity in Ocean Shores’ high dune ecosystem, but they have documented over 200 species from the inner dunes of Ocean Shores. Major groups indicative of the high dune ecosystem live here such as beach grasses, forbs or flowering plants with runners (stolon), and sand and salt adapted shrubs. You may see unique species of trees, moss, lichen, mammals, birds, amphibians, insects, and other invertebrates in the high dunes, as well.

Endemic or unique?

Endemic species are found only in one location while unique and rare species have limited geographic ranges. Due to the severity of the shifting sand environment, most species found in the high dunes are adapted and specialized making them unique. More research is required to determine whether any of our species are endemic.

Biodiversity and resilience

Scientists have found links between higher biodiversity and resilience in the face of ecological change. The presence of more endemic and unique species increases the biodiversity of a region. Each species has a functional role in the environment supporting thriving, healthy ecosystems.

Thanks to Michal Rosencrans for additional photos.