Indiana Dunes National Park, located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan in Indiana, is home to uniquely diverse ecosystems that support a variety of biomes. The park's varied landscape, ranging from sandy beaches to wooded areas, fosters rich biodiversity. Keep on reading to learn more about the biomes at Indiana Dunes National Park
Beach and Dune
The park’s beach and dune biome is characterized by sandy shores and grassy dunes, providing habitat for a variety of plants, including marram grass and wildflowers, and animals such as shorebirds, amphibians, and insects.
Oak Savanna
The oak savanna biome at Indiana Dunes features scattered oak trees and prairie grasses, which create a unique habitat for plants like wildflowers and animals including deer, foxes, and various bird species.
Wetlands
The park's wetland areas, including marshes and swamps, are home to a mix of cattails, rushes, and other aquatic plants. These wetlands provide vital habitat for amphibians, waterfowl, and aquatic mammals.
Prairie Grasslands
Prairie grasslands within the park are dominated by species like little bluestem and Indian grass. This biome supports a range of wildlife, including butterflies, small mammals, and ground-nesting birds.
Forests
The forest biome in Indiana Dunes consists of both deciduous and coniferous trees, such as maple, oak, and pine, offering shelter and food for a diversity of animal species, including squirrels, raccoons, and various songbirds.
Bog
The park’s bog biome features acid-tolerant plants like sphagnum moss and leatherleaf. This unique environment provides habitat for specialized wildlife including dragonflies, amphibians, and unique bird species.