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Panorama: microhabitats in glacial valley
| Title | Info |
|---|---|
| Common name | Ferns; Lichens; Mosses |
| Source | Dan L. Perlman |
| Ecosystems | Other |
| Disturbance | Glacier |
| Geography and geology | Glacial meltwater-created valley |
| Lessons | Panoramas |
| Date | October 11, 2009 |
| Location | Blue Hills Felsenmeer State Natural Area,Rusk County,Wisconsin,USA,North America |
Related materials: Panoramas;Microclimates at a felsenmeer
This V-shaped valley was carved by meltwater from a nearby glacier more than 15,000 years ago. Over time, repeated freeze-thaw cycles caused the bedrock walls to fracture, creating the loose boulders seen here -- hence the name felsenmeer, which is German for a "sea of rock". The largely barren south-facing slope is significantly hotter and dryer than the north-facing slope, which is covered by mosses, ferns, and lichens (zoom in to see the difference). In addition, the reservoir of cool air among the rocks keeps the north-facing slope especially cool, so that the plants here are more typical of regions far to the north.
