​Florida Scrub
Return to Natural Areas
The scrub ecosystem is typically found near the coast on ridges and old dunes. Sandy, well drained, nutrient poor soils and other severe xeric conditions limit plant and animal species to only the most specialized or adaptive. Many rare and endangered species can be found in this ecosystem, however, the overall species diversity is small and thus indicates a system that is very fragile. Typical plants include; Sand Pine, Oaks, Saw Palmetto, and Rosemary. Animals that live in the scrub are Gopher tortoises, scrub jays, snakes, lizards, insects, and spiders. Fire plays an important role in maintaining scrub ecosystems.
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