Observations of habitat and structure of Lycopodium clavatum L. and L. obscurum L. in the Northern Great Lakes Region.

Abstract

Around the Northern Great Lakes (Superior, Huron, and Michigan) both Lycopodium clavatum L. and L. obscurum L. are common plants of most woodlands. However, literature discussing specific differences and similarities in habitat and structure between the two is very limited. The object of this study is to report detailed, in-field observations and to attempt to draw conclusions of habitat requirements and structural variance from these data. It is critical to then compare these findings with existing literature in order to gain a better understanding of the plants lifestyle. ... In conclusion, both L. clavatum and L. obscurum seem to grow in similar habitats (e.g. moist to dry, slightly acid woodlands) and with largely the same surrounding species (Table 1) in the Northern Great Lakes region. However, it appears that L. clavatum has a broader range of habitat than L. obscurum. This is evident in regard to estimated pH levels and types of substrate.