Trampling - surface shingle

Some of the most susceptible communities on shingle structures are those with abundant lichens. These slow growing species are very sensitive, especially in dry weather, when they are particularly easy to damage. Even the passage of one person walking (or cycling) on an established vegetated shingle ridge can leave 'footprints', which may never be repaired. Compaction of the surface may also affect the seed bank making it more difficult for some species to germinate.

In some cases the simple act of walking along the shore can case considerable damage to sensitive plant communities (see for example the "effects of disturbance on Lathyrus japonicus", which has been reversed by the control of visitors at Orfordness).

Caption: Sea pea Lathyrus japonicus.