cheniers
Cheniers are a type of coastal dune vegetation found primarily in temperate and subtropical regions, particularly along the Atlantic coast of North America, including areas such as the southeastern United States and parts of Canada. These ecosystems are characterized by their sandy, nutrient-poor soils and are often stabilized by dense growths of woody shrubs and small trees. The term "chenier" originates from the French word *chenier*, meaning "ridge," as these formations typically appear as narrow, elongated ridges of shell hash (accumulated marine debris) and sand.
Cheniers develop where rivers or streams deposit sediment at the mouth of estuaries or bays, creating a
Chenier plains are ecologically significant, serving as critical habitats for wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles.