Lichen Heath
Cladonia spp.
Overview
The grey lichen heath that covers the surface of old fixed dunes at Ainsdale NNR is actually a community of several Cladonia lichen species — not one plant. This habitat, technically called dune lichen heath, is internationally rare and the Sefton Coast holds some of the best examples in the UK. It's vulnerable to trampling, which is why footpath management at Ainsdale is so important. The lichen heath is also critical habitat for insects, including rare beetles.
At a Glance
| Order | Lecanorales |
| Family | Cladoniaceae |
| Habitat | Old fixed dune · Dune heath · Bare sand interstices |
| UK population | Internationally rare habitat — Atlantic dune lichen heath restricted to northwest European Atlantic coast |
| Sefton Coast | Sefton Coast holds some of the best dune lichen heath in the UK — internationally significant |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Fixed dune heath at Ainsdale NNR and around Birkdale. The grey-green crusty patches on old dune surfaces.
Identification
Grey-green crusty, scaly or cup-shaped structures covering the dune surface. Various species — Cladonia portentosa is the most common, forming grey-green tangled mats. Pixie cup lichens (Cladonia pyxidata) have distinctive cup-shaped tops.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Look on old, stable dune surfaces away from the paths. Do not walk on lichen heath — it takes decades to recover from damage. Get low for the best view of the structure.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is of moderate conservation concern. Population monitoring and habitat management on the Sefton Coast support its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is dune lichen heath so rare?
Dune lichen heath develops only on very old, stable dune surfaces where the sand has not been disturbed for decades. It is vulnerable to trampling (a single footstep can take 20 years to recover), fire, and succession to scrub. Globally, it is largely restricted to the Atlantic coast of northwest Europe, making the Sefton Coast examples of international conservation importance.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.