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Carex aquatilis - Sphagnum spp. Herbaceous Vegetation | Carsey, K., G. Kittel, K. Decker...
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Name: Carex aquatilis - Sphagnum spp. Herbaceous Vegetation
Reference: Carsey, K., G. Kittel, K. Decker...
Description: This association is limited to fen wetlands fed by springs arising from hydrothermally altered bedrock. Most examples are at or above 2743 m (9000 feet) elevation, on slopes or valley bottoms. The pH of these springs ranges from 3.4 to 5.2 because the high sulfur content of the parent rock turns groundwater to sulfuric acid. Occurrences are characterized by a monoculture of <i>Carex aquatilis</i> with an understory dominated by <i>Sphagnum</i> mosses that are tolerant of acidic conditions (e.g., <i>Sphagnum angustifolium, Sphagnum balticum, Sphagnum squarrosum, Sphagnum girgensohnii</i>, or <i>Sphagnum fuscum</i>). <i>Sphagnum squarrosum</i> is generally absent. A low cover of <i>Betula glandulosa</i> or <i>Vaccinium myrtillus</i> may be present; the association usually occurs in a mosaic with shrub-scrub or woodland communities dominated by <i>Betula glandulosa, Picea engelmannii</i>, or <i>Pinus contorta</i>. The organic-iron deposit known as limonite is generally present and is diagnostic. Willows such as <i>Salix planifolia</i> occur only on the margins of these acidic fens or where non-acidic springs or streams intersect the wetland. 
Accession Code: VB.CC.37288.CEGL002898
Plot-observations of this Community Concept: 0
      Party Perspective according to: NatureServe (organization)
Perspective from: 17-Nov-2014 to: 01-May-2019
     
  • status: accepted
  • This Community's Level: association
  • This Community's Children: [none]
Names:   Translated: Water Sedge - Peatmoss species Herbaceous Vegetation
  Code: CEGL002898
  Scientific: Carex aquatilis - Sphagnum spp. Herbaceous Vegetation
  UID: ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.686403 NatureServe ExplorerNatureServe Explorer logo