ACE Basin Characterization Study: Species Gallery
The ACE Basin contains six distinct ecosystem habitat types that range from subtidal areas and vast wetlands to uplands. These habitats are characterized by more than 1500 different plant and animal species that interact with the physical environment to create the ACE Basin ecosystem.
Reptiles and Amphibians
- American Alligator
- Diamondback Terrapin
- Eastern Diamondback
- Loggerhead Sea Turtle
- Southeastern Five-line Skink
Reptiles and amphibians occur in every habitat in the ACE Basin. Communities are extensive and active throughout the year along the South Carolina coast because of its warm, humid climate. The composition of herpetofauna communities is primarily controlled by water regimes, salinity of the water, and structure of the vegetative community. Species such as the American alligator, the cottonmouth, and the southern toad are examples of species that inhabit a wide range of areas and are important members of the herpetofaunal community in many of the ACE Basin habitats. Other species, such as salamanders or certain treefrogs, may have a very restricted range of habitats because they cannot withstand exposure to saltwater, are very sensitive to dry conditions, or require ephemeral wetland habitats.