This
small wetland can be classified as a salt marsh, which dries up during
droughts. The pond is largely overgrown with rare sea rush (Juncus maritimus).
In the peripheral part of the pond, there are other plants that grow in salt
habitats. These are called halophytes and include species such as glasswort
(Salicornia sp.), golden samphire (Inula crithmoides), and Ariplex sp. The pond
is also home to filamentous green algae.
Slatin
Pond on Ćuf promontory is a specific habitat. It actually represents a small
saline wetland – a very rare type of biotope in the Kvarner region. This small
wetland can be classified as a salt marsh, which dries up during droughts. The
pond is largely overgrown with rare sea rush (Juncus maritimus). In the
peripheral part of the pond, there are other plants that grow in salt habitats.
These are called halophytes and include species such as glasswort (Salicornia
sp.), golden samphire (Inula crithmoides), and Ariplex sp. The pond is also
home to filamentous green algae.
At
certain times of the year, the pond is visited by marsh birds, such as white
herons, house martins and swallows. The pond also hosts certain species of
dragonfly. Numerous spiders spin their webs among the stalks of the sea rushes,
which indicates a rather rich insect fauna. This is also attested to by the
numerous wall lizards (Podarcis sicula) running around the rocks by the pond.
Karst
ponds on the island of Krk are distinguished by their rich flora and fauna,
which is why they are important for the preservation of biodiversity in this
area.
With
regard to the protection of amphibians, ponds can be classified as very
sensitive areas. In addition, these are the only places on the islands where
bats can drink during summer. Ponds are also distinguished by their scenic
beauty and often have a particular cultural and historical significance. Those
surrounded by dry stone walls are part of the island's typical manmade
landscapes with dozens of kilometres of dry-stone walls that attest to the
millennia-long tradition of livestock breeding on Krk. In addition to this one,
there are a dozen other large ponds in the area of the Municipality of Omišalj.