White Sands National Park, located in southern New Mexico, is a unique and iconic ecosystem that showcases one of the world's largest gypsum dune fields. The park's distinctive environment supports a number of specialized biomes and habitats. Keep on reading to learn more about the biomes at White Sands National Park.
Dune Field
The park's dune field biome is dominated by the vast, white gypsum sands, which create a unique habitat for specially adapted plants and animals. Species like the White Sands pupfish and various spiders have adapted to this extreme environment.
Desert Scrub
The surrounding desert scrub biome features hardy shrubs and plants such as creosote bush and yucca, which are adapted to the arid conditions. This biome supports a variety of wildlife, including reptiles, rodents, and birds.
Playa
The ephemeral playa lakes form in low-lying areas after rainfall, creating temporary water bodies that support a different set of fauna, including migratory birds and amphibians, in this otherwise dry environment.
Mesquite Coppice Dunes
Within the park, there are areas where mesquite plants have stabilized the dunes, creating "mesquite coppice dunes." These areas provide habitat for small mammals, birds, and insects, and highlight the resilience of plant life in harsh desert conditions.
Alkali Flats
The alkali flats, rich in minerals from evaporated water, host salt-tolerant plants and provide an important habitat for brine shrimp and other invertebrates. This biome is crucial for migratory waterfowl that rely on the seasonal resources.