Sand dunes

Question 1

Vegetation importance

Answer 1

Essential in stabilising landforms
Roots of plants bind soil together which reduces erosion
When completely submerged they provide a protective layer in the ground
Plants reduce wind speed reducing amount of wind erosion

Question 2

Embryo dunes

Answer 2

First dunes to develop
Grasses such as couch grass and sea rocket colonise this area known as pioneer species
Able to tolerate the very dry, salty and exposed conditions

Question 3

Marram grass

Answer 3

Example of pioneer plant
Tough and flexible can cope with sandy conditions
Adapted to reduce water loss through transpiration
Roots grow up to 3m stabilising the dune

Question 4

Stabilisation

Answer 4

After the foredunes the dunes eventually become stable and an organic layer develops
Other types of vegetation colonise the area due to increase in nutrients available from increased hummus content