DU3E Succisa pratensis – Epipactis palustris duneland
Vegetation
This is an unusual dune slack community, characterised by a number of species not found elsewhere in duneland systems. The constant graminoids are Anthoxanthum odoratum, Carex otrubae, Festuca rubra, Carex nigra, Agrostis stolonifera, Briza media and Holcus lanatus. Juncus maritimus and Helictotrichon pubescens are frequent graminoids. The main forb species are Succisa pratensis, Epipactis palustris, Ranunculus bulbosus, Lotus corniculatus, Prunella vulgaris, Trifolium pratense and Galium verum. Filipendula ulmaria is frequently abundant. Dactylorhiza purpurella and the fern Ophioglossum vulgatum may also be encountered in this diverse assemblage.
Ecology
This vegetation is currently only known from the desiccating dune slack system on North Bull Island in which the water is mildy brackish.
Sub-communities
No sub-communities are described.
Similar communities
This community supports a number of species seldom found in other duneland communities (e.g. Succisa pratensis and Anthoxanthum odoratum) and should be fairly easily distinguished.
Conservation value
Examples of this vegetation correspond to the EU HD Annex I habitat 2190 Dune slacks. It is a very diverse type of duneland (species/16 m2 = 20.4n = 61).
Management
This community is vulnerable to trampling by recreational walkers and alterations to the water table.