Glossary

An ecotone (é-koh-tohn) is a transitional zone where two distinct ecological communities meet, such as a forest and chaparral or a grassland and woodland.

Ecotones often contain overlapping plant species, changing light and moisture levels, and a mix of plant structures from both habitats.

Ecotones are among the most biologically rich parts of the landscape, supporting high species diversity where habitats overlap.

In the Santa Cruz Mountains, ecotones often occur along forest edges, ridgelines, meadows, or riparian corridors, where plant communities intermingle. Species like Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), Coffeeberry (Frangula californica), and Purple Needlegrass (Stipa pulchra) often thrive in ecotones.

Ecotones also serve as critical movement corridors for wildlife, providing shelter, food, and passage between habitat types. Their layered vegetation offers nesting, foraging, and hunting opportunities for a wide range of insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Importantly, ecotones play a role in fire safety and resilience. The structural diversity and patchiness of ecotones, especially those composed of native plants, can slow fire spread, reduce wind-driven flame fronts, and create natural fire breaks. In this way, well-managed ecotones act as buffers that protect both forest interiors and human communities.

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