Name:
Larix laricina Saturated Forest Alliance
Reference:
Midwestern Ecology Working Group...
Description:
This wetland forest alliance is found in the central and western Great Lakes region. The canopy is dominated by Larix laricina, either in pure stands or in combination with other coniferous and hardwood species. Acer rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, Betula papyrifera, Fraxinus nigra, and Thuja occidentalis can often be found in association with Larix laricina. In the northern stands of this alliance, Picea mariana is the most common, and often the only, associate, while in the Southeast, Carpinus caroliniana and Cornus florida reach canopy status. Few trees grow very large in communities within this alliance. The canopy trees may be only 5-10 m tall, and the stem density may be moderate to high. The shrub layer is also variable, from open to moderately dense. Common species in this stratum include Andromeda polifolia var. glaucophylla (= Andromeda glaucophylla), Photinia melanocarpa (= Aronia melanocarpa), Betula pumila, Chamaedaphne calyculata, Cornus sericea (= Cornus stolonifera), Gaultheria procumbens (in the northern portion of this alliance's range), Ledum groenlandicum (in the northwest), Lindera benzoin and Toxicodendron vernix (in the southeast), Salix spp., and Vaccinium spp. The herbaceous stratum is poorly to moderately well-developed. Graminoids, such as Carex aquatilis, Carex lasiocarpa, Carex trisperma, and Calamagrostis canadensis, are common in some communities. Impatiens capensis, Mitella nuda, and Osmunda cinnamomea are typical non-graminoid species. Mosses, especially Sphagnum spp., are very prevalent. Stands in this alliance are found on poorly drained sites, usually with acidic, organic soils but sometimes on wet mineral soils. Most stands of this alliance have poor to moderate nutrient status. Fires can spread through stands of this alliance in dry years and kill many of the thin-barked Larix laricina. Insect infestations, notably by the larch sawfly, can also cause great damage.
Accession Code:
VB.CC.18533.LARIXLARICINASA
Plot-observations of this Community Concept:
0
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