Studies show a decline in breeding of certain marine fish when salt and fresh water intermixing has been hampered. Harsh Environment Nature ultimately determines the extent of man wrought habitat changes on Bodie Island. The maritime environment tests the flexibility and endurance of plants. Wind constantly batters their leaves. Wind borne salt can stunt growth.
Storm tides can bury the island's plants under a foot or more of sand.
Flooding seawater can kill all but the most tolerant vegetation. Adaptations Vegetation that does survive in this coastal environment has evolved a variety of adaptations. Wax myrtle and baccharis bushes have small tough leaves, a trait which reduces the chance of leaves being torn by wind. Such an injury allows poisonous salt spray to enter and damage the plant. Waxy leaves of the yaupon holly act as a barrier keeping salt from penetrating.