Yellow and grey lichens on Atlantic supralittoral rock

Description (English)

Vertical to gently sloping bedrock and stable boulders in the supralittoral (or splash zone) of the majority of rocky shores are typically characterised by a diverse maritime community of yellow and grey lichens, such as Xanthoria parietina, Caloplaca marina, Lecanora atra and Ramalina spp. The black lichen Verrucaria maura is also present, but usually in lower abundance than in the littoral fringe zone. In wave exposed conditions, where the effects of sea-spray extend further up the shore, the lichens generally form a wide and distinct band. This band then becomes less distinct as wave exposure decreases, and in sheltered locations, cobbles and pebbles may also support the biotope. Pools, damp pits and crevices in the rock are occasionally occupied by winkles such as Littorina saxatilis and halacarid mites may also be present.
Situation: This biotope is usually found at the top of the shore, immediately above a zone of the black lichen V. maura (MA1-2131, MA1-2132). Above the band of MA1-211, and occasionally in crevices in the rock alongside the lichens, terrestrial plants such as the thrift Armeria maritima and other angiosperms often occur. In sheltered areas the transition from MA1-211 to MA1-2132 is often indistinct and a mixed zone of MA1-211 and MA1-2132 may occur. In estuaries, this biotope is often restricted to artificial substrata such as sea defences. With decreasing influence of saltwater this habitat gives way to N3

Source: EUNIS habitat classification