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Learn about the nine types of cliff communities in Missouri and the animals and plants that live there.
Cliffs are steep to vertical exposures of bedrock (or loess) 10 feet or more in height. Nine distinct cliff natural communities have been identified in Missouri, distinguished by rock type and by amount of moisture.
Talus slopes often occur at the bases of cliffs and consist of loose rock fragments or slabs covering more than half the surface area. Because the rocks are prone to movement, trees have trouble getting established in these areas.
Learn about the nine types of cliff communities in Missouri and the animals and plants that live there.
Talus habitats are rocky places with little soil and rather sparse vegetation. Learn about these naturally occurring slopes that often form at the base of cliffs.