Two disturbed and pioneer sedges: Carex capillaris and Carex castanea.

Abstract

Determining the distribution and relationship between plant species could be described as piecing together a puzzle. Species presence and association within an area is dependent upon many factors that include: climate, soil composition, topography, moisture and light levels. This paper examines both Carex capillaris and Carex castanea, two members of the Cyperaceae family that grow in similar habitats. In particular this paper attempts to analyze 1) the morphological and site characters that favor Carex capillaris and/or Carex castanea, and 2) the locations of each species within a site, and 3) the associate species of both Carex castanea and Carex capillaris within a radius of 2 to 3 meters. Through careful field observation, I hope to add some key pieces to the Carex capillaris and Carex castanea puzzle.