1. Dune Plants

2. Dunes: small hills of sand created by wind. Usually held together by the roots of select beach plants. The majority of plants grow in the direction opposite the ocean to prevent from drying out Many dune plants stay small because the ocean winds act like pruning shears, taking off the top growth and preventing them from growing taller.

3. Dune Plant Adaptations Waxy leaves Thorns Bouyant seeds (drift seeds) Fuzzy leaves Succulence: plants with thick water-filled leaves and stems to prevent water loss

4. Prickly Pear Cactus thorns, succulent Railroad Vine (morning glory and moon flower)

5. Sand Spurs: thorns Nickerbean: thorns, drift seeds

6. Spanish Bayonet Thorns Beach sunflower Sea Oats

7. Why are they important? Keep sand in place- slow down the effects of erosion Provide important food source for wildlife Shelter for certain wildlife ex: sea bird nesting