A North Norfolk Saltmarsh

Saltmarshes develop along protective areas of our coast and form some of the most unspoilt and fragile habitats of our landscape. It is their progression from the tidal waters to inland; that offers the opportunity to study the development of these coastal features. Much of the research on saltmarshes has been focused upon succession and the consequent development of a zonation, using models of the 'ideal' saltmarsh. Previous research had tried to identify one phenomena as the cause behind zonation but it is now realised that a variety of factors may be influential in the make up of this environment. Therefore a combined study of saltmarsh components was undertaken at Warham, North Norfolk to further the understanding of succession and zonation. Initial examination of the saltmarsh identified three zones based on geomorphology and vegetation. Vegetation increased in diversity, cover and height from the sea to inland, along with the development of a soil profile. Laboratory results identified an increase in soil components with distance inland and statistical analysis then explained variations in vegetation height, diversity and selected species.