Dune Slack Formation
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Dune slacks develop through two processes. Primary dune slacks form when a section of the upper beach becomes enclosed by a newly formed seaward dune ridge. Secondary dune slacks form as a result of blowouts between dunes, in which wind removes sand to the groundwater level, creating a flat, humid area between the surrounding dunes. Low nutrient availability and seasonal inundation naturally slow succession.
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Dune Slack Ecology
Although Belgian dune systems represent only a small portion of the overall dune habitats along the North Sea, their more calcareous substrate and southern location make them botanically distinctive. The central, flat area supports inundation-tolerant species, while drier, well-drained edges are dominated by species characteristic of humid meadows and calcareous grasslands.
This habitat supports high plant diversity, including many orchid species such as Herminium monorchis and Dactylorhiza incarnata as well as species typically associated with alkaline fens such as Epipactis palustris and Parnassia palustris. While certain pollinator species, such as Bembix rostrata and Megachile maritima, are commonly associated with dunes, the pollinator communities of dune slacks are less well characterized.
This habitat supports high plant diversity, including many orchid species such as Herminium monorchis and Dactylorhiza incarnata as well as species typically associated with alkaline fens such as Epipactis palustris and Parnassia palustris. While certain pollinator species, such as Bembix rostrata and Megachile maritima, are commonly associated with dunes, the pollinator communities of dune slacks are less well characterized.
Threats
Since the end of World War II, dune systems along the Belgian coast have undergone substantial land use changes. Most traditional agricultural activities ceased, while urbanization greatly increased. The subsequent collapse of grazing pressure and increased nitrogen deposition has accelerated succession, resulting in dune encroachment and impaired dune slack formation. In addition, ground water collection for domestic use in the newly developed urban areas lowers the groundwater table and reduces the time during which dune slacks are inundated.
Our Sites
All sites are located in Ter Yde, an 80-hectare nature reserve in the heartland of one of the largest dune complexes on our coast, which covers approximately 260 hectares. However, this area is highly fragmented, mostly due to urban development. Due to the aforementioned threats, most remaining areas have been managed with mowing and grazing by cattle and horses since the 1990s.
BiodivMon Call
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Duration of the project
01.04.2024 - 31.03.2027 |
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