FW2F Potamogeton pectinatus – Myriophyllum spicatum aquatic community
Vegetation
The fine leaves of Potamogeton pectinatus dominate this aquatic community and it is the only constant species. Occasionally, it is accompanied by Potamogeton berchtoldii, the whorled stems of Myriophyllum spicatum or, in more saline waters, Ruppia maritima/cirrhosa. More rarely, one may find the floating duckweeds Lemna trisulca and Lemna minor or other pondweeds.
Ecology
This community is to be found mostly in lagoons with lower salinity, but also occurs in lowland rivers and freshwater lakes. It is associated with fairly base-rich and distinctly eutrophic waters.
Sub-communities
No sub-communities are currently described.
Similar communities
The dominance of Potamogeton pectinatus differentiates this community from the SW1A Ruppia maritima/cirrhosa lagoon community in which P. pectinatus may also occur.
Conservation value
Many examples of this community occur in water bodies that qualify as EU HD Annex I priority habitat 1150 Lagoons*. Species diversity is low.
Management
This community is typically unmanaged. It is mainly threatened by impacts which affect lagoons, including drainage for purposes of agricultural reclamation and natural siltation. The association with nutrient-enriched waters mean that eutrophication of both lakes and rivers is likely to affect its abundance.