Even though the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes consist of moving sand with extremely low moisture that is seemingly deprived of nutrients, it is home to a variety of flora and fauna. There are at least 18 endangered species of plants living in the Dunes. Dune plants must also be able to endure burial by sand, salt spray, high winds, and high insolation. The Nipomo Mesa lupine is endemic to the dunes and is limited to the area. There are five to seven colonies growing in a strip of sand dunes.