Heathlands

Heathlands

Heathlands (.jpg - 62k)

Heathlands are nationally significant communities dominated by dense mats of prostrate shrubs that hold the sandy soils and prevent erosion. On Cape Cod, heathlands are now found mostly in small open areas between Eastham and Truro, and in protected stretches along the Cape Cod National Sea Shore.

This habitat was probably more prevalent in previous centuries, when deforestation was at its peak, but now few areas suitable for heathland establishment are being formed. Coastal heathlands are stable communities that are adapted to the harsh seaside conditions. Here, wind and salt spray preclude invasion by taller trees.

Inland sites are transitional communities that may develop in any cleared area, but are able to survive only in maintained clearings, such as along roadways and powerlines. Inland heathlands generally have higher diversity than coastal sites.

Coastal sites are dominated by bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi), beach heather (Hudsonia tomentosa), and black huckleberry (Gaylussacia baccata), while at inland sites beach heather is typically replaced by golden heather (Hudsonia ericoides). Bushy rockrose (Helianthemum dumosum) and broom crowberry (Corema conradii), a species of special concern, may be found in all heathlands. The Hudsonia genus plants are not true heathers but belong to the Rockrose Family (Cistaceae).

Heathlands are regularly lost to development.