Characterising species of the supralittoral zone

The supralittoral zone marks the upper extent of the intertidal and in some cases is considered a terrestrial habitat i.e within the EUNIS classification it is placed with the coastal habitats.

The supralittoral or 'splash zone' is the area at the top of the shore that receives the salt spray from the waves, as such, those shores experiencing greater exposure and salt spray from waves have larger supralittoral zones. Rock angle, shade and local climate also influence the extent of the zone.

The supralittoral zone is characterised by rocks covered in lichens, salt tolerant angiosperm and pools with variable salinity and temperatures. The organisms are highly specialized to endure variable salinity, periods of exposure and occasional immersion during storms. 

Lichens are one of the characteristic species of the supralittoral and often come to dominate the available rock. Concordantly the presence of lichens is a key component in the habitat classification of supralittoral rock and is captured by the habitat description: LR.FLR.Lic.YG (Yellow and grey lichens on supralittoral rock) EUNIS: B3.111.

One of the few mobile species to extend up into the supralittoral from the intertidal is the rough periwinkle (Littorina saxatilis).   

A variety of grey and yellow lichens can be found in the supralittoral.

The seaslater (Ligia oceanica) can also be observed.

Salt tolerant plants can also occur.

The distinction between the lichen and plant communities of the supralittoral and the terrestrial vegetation is often unclear. 

Rockpools within the supralittoral experience variable salinity and temperature making them inhospitable for many species. Habitat classification: EUNIS A1.42 (Communities of rockpools in supralittoral zone).

In this example tadpoles are found in the supralittoal rockpools of the shore.