Exploring the Biodiversity of Chattanooga: A Phytophile’s Paradise

Chattanooga is a powerhouse when it comes to biodiversity, offering a remarkable blend of ecosystems, native species, and protected areas that contribute to the region's ecological significance. Nestled where the Appalachian Mountains, Cumberland Plateau, and Tennessee River Valley converge, Chattanooga’s natural environment is teeming with diverse flora and fauna. From rare plants to thriving aquatic life, this region is an ecological treasure trove. 

The Biodiversity of Chattanooga: Why It’s Special 

Chattanooga’s unique geographic location makes it one of the most biodiverse areas in the United States. The region spans across multiple ecosystems, including temperate moist forests, wetlands, and rocky ridges, each supporting an array of species. This convergence of ecosystems creates habitats that foster a rich variety of plant and animal life. Additionally, the Tennessee River, one of the most biologically diverse river systems in North America, flows through the city, adding to its biodiversity with over 1,400 aquatic species, including rare fish, freshwater mussels, and crayfish. 

What is a Temperate Moist Forest Biome?  

To truly understand Chattanooga's biodiversity, it helps to first look at the type of environment that surrounds the city. Chattanooga sits in a temperate moist forest biome, a category of ecosystems known for their mild climate, distinct seasons, and rich plant and animal life. 

A temperate moist forest biome is characterized by: 

• Mild yearly temperatures, with an average of around 10°C (50°F). 
• Plentiful rainfall, ranging between 750 to 1,500 mm (30 to 59 inches) annually, helping to sustain the lush environment. 
• Distinct seasons, including hot summers and cold winters, providing varying conditions for wildlife and plant life throughout the year. 

One of the defining features of a temperate moist forest biome is its diverse range of tree species. In Chattanooga, the forests are populated with oak, maple, beech, and hickory trees. These forests serve as essential habitats for countless wildlife species, including mammals, birds, and insects. The abundant vegetation also provides rich soil, promoting the growth of a variety of understory plants and fungi that support even more biodiversity. 

The city is home to over 228 unique native plant species. Chattanooga's diverse habitats make it an ideal haven for species that are rare or endangered, contributing to its regional and global ecological significance. 

Native Plants in Chattanooga: A Floral Wonderland 

Chattanooga is home to a wide range of native plants that are well-adapted to its climate and ecosystems. These species play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and maintaining the ecological balance in the region. Here are some native plants that can be found throughout the area: 

• Trees: Oak, Maple (Red, Silver, Sugar, and Box Elder), Hemlock, Ash, Eastern Redbud 
• Shrubs and Small Trees: Fringe tree, False Indigo, Summersweet Clethra, Oakleaf Hydrangea 
• Flowers: Wild Indigo, Asters, Bee Balm, Virginia Bluebells, Wild Columbine, Tennessee coneflower   

These plants thrive in Chattanooga’s varied landscapes, from wetlands to forests, and offer vibrant colors and textures throughout the year. 

Hiking Trails for Flower Enthusiasts 

For those eager to explore Chattanooga’s native flora in person, Chattanooga is the perfect place to launch your exploration. These trails offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in Chattanooga’s biodiversity: 

• Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center: A 300-acre area with over 10 miles of trails where visitors can enjoy guided tours featuring spring blooms like trillium and wild geranium. Reflection Riding is also known for its educational efforts, including videos about local wildlife and habitat restoration. 

• TVA Properties – Little Cedar Mountain Wildflower Walk: A 4-mile loop trail at Nickajack Reservoir where visitors can spot trout lilies, purple phacelia, and trillium. 

• Audubon Acres Nature Sanctuary: A 5-mile trail offering spring and summer wildflowers like bluebells and bloodroot. This sanctuary is also an excellent location for birdwatching and offers a glimpse into local biodiversity. 

• Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail: A quarter-mile handicap-accessible boardwalk with a 0.9-mile hike showcasing abundant wildflowers. 

• Blue Blazes Trail at Moccasin Bend: A 2-mile loop trail with views of ancient shorelines, forests, and the Tennessee River. 

• Spring at Rock City: Not technically a hike, but the walking trails at Rock City in the spring are absolutely bursting with daffodils, rhododendrons, mountain laurel and wild geraniums. 

Maclellan Island Refuge

Looking for even more adventures in biodiversity? In between our bustling downtown and vibrant Northshore district sits an 18.8-acre island full of flora and fauna. Maclellan Island is a refuge for wildlife, and heaven for birders, with Osprey nests, a Great Blue Heron rookery, and seasonal Cormorants. It has a rain shadow desert, which is created when a mountain range (or in our case, a bridge!) blocks moist air, resulting in arid conditions. Here is how to get there! 

Chattanooga’s “Underwater Rainforest” 

But the magic doesn’t stop in the forest. Chattanooga’s waterways, especially the Tennessee River, are home to an incredible “underwater rainforest” — a term used to describe the stunning biodiversity that thrives in the rivers and streams of the southeastern United States. 

This term might sound a bit unusual, but it’s fitting when you consider just how rich the aquatic life around Chattanooga is. Within a 500-mile radius of the city, there are over 1,400 aquatic species, making this region one of the most diverse aquatic ecosystems on the planet. In fact, about 73.1% of all native fish species in the United States can be found in this area. 

Here’s a closer look at some of the fascinating facts about Chattanooga’s “underwater rainforest”: 

• Over 230 species of fish, more than any other U.S. watershed. 
• More than 100 species of freshwater mussels, many of which are rare and critical to the ecosystem’s health. 
• 77 species of crayfish, some of which can only be found in this part of the world. The region is also home to a stunning variety of aquatic insects and plants, forming an intricate web of life that supports the entire ecosystem. 

Chattanooga’s rivers are teeming with some truly remarkable species. The tangerine darter, river chub, and prehistoric sturgeon are just a few examples of the unique fish that call these waters home. The river’s riparian zones (the areas along the banks) provide critical habitats for both aquatic and terrestrial species, including bald eagles, herons, otters, and migratory songbirds. The area’s amphibian life is equally impressive, with nearly 80% of North America’s salamander species living in this region. One of the most notable creatures in the “underwater rainforest” is the hellbender, a fascinating, giant aquatic salamander that thrives in clean, cool streams. To visit these slimy friends, head to the Chattanooga Zoo, which has launched a huge conservation initiative to protect Hellbender Salamanders from extinction. 

This extraordinary biodiversity is a critical reason why Chattanooga’s waterways are so important to conservation efforts. Many of these species are at risk due to pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, and overfishing. The Tennessee Aquarium plays a vital role in preserving this ecosystem by conducting research, educating the public, and running species reintroduction programs for creatures like the lake sturgeon, Appalachian Brook Trout, and the Barrens Top Minnow. Our Aquarium is an extremely fun attraction to visit, but it is also an important pillar for aquatic conservation in the Southeastern United States. 

Conservation Efforts: Protecting Chattanooga’s Natural Treasures 

Chattanooga is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also a place where concerted conservation efforts are underway. One notable initiative involves the white fringeless orchid, a rare plant listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Researchers, including Dr. Jennifer Boyd from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, are working alongside partners like the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and the Atlanta Botanical Garden to conserve and grow these elusive orchids. Through innovative lab techniques, more than 400 orchids have been cultivated for replanting in various environments, increasing their chances of survival. Boyd’s team has worked tirelessly with organizations such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Tennessee Ecological Services, and the Cherokee National Forest to restore and protect rare plant species like the white fringeless orchid. 

In 2024, the city made the decision to create a 27-acre forested Urban Ecology Preserve along the South Chickamauga Creek, ensuring long-term protection of animal and plant habitats. Researchers have already found, “228 unique species of native plants” on the property. Organizations like Reflection Riding, Tennessee River Gorge Trust, National Parks Partners, Lookout Mountain Conservancy, Trust for Public Land, and Audubon Society all work locally to champion conservation of the region's wildlife and ecosystems.  

Visiting Chattanooga’s Biodiversity 

Chattanooga’s combination of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and ongoing conservation efforts makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're hiking one of the area's scenic trails, observing native flowers in bloom, or exploring the aquatic life of the Tennessee River, Chattanooga offers a wealth of opportunities to experience the wonder of the natural world.  

In the spring, Chattanooga explodes with opportunities to engage with our native plants and learn about wildlife, local horticulture, and native plant gardening:  

• March 15: Reflection Riding’s Native Plant Nursery opens for the season. 

• March 29: Tennessee Valley Wild Ones Spring Plant Sale at First Horizon Pavilion. 

• April 12 & 13: “Master Your Garden” Expo brings together a wide-ranging array of exhibits, demonstrations, educational activities, and vendors to gardening enthusiasts. 

• April 25-27, 2025: Crabtree Farms Spring Plant Sale & Festival – one of the most anticipated plant sales of the year. 

• Year-round: the Tennessee Native Plant Society offers field trips and learning opportunities to explore the nearby flora. 

• Year-round: Outdoor Chattanooga hosts workshops and wildflower hikes to educate folks on the fascinating intricacies of our local environment and how to get the most out of exploring Chattanooga. 

• Seasonal Flower Picking is a delightful part of visiting our local farms 

By visiting and supporting local nature centers, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation projects, you can help protect the region’s biodiversity for future generations to enjoy.