FW3M Typha latifolia swamp
Vegetation
This tall, emergent swamp community consists of dense stands of Typha latifolia with its iconic dark brown seed heads. No other species are constants and the only other plants frequently found are duckweeds (Lemna minor, Lemna trisulca) floating on the surface of the water. Now and then one will spot some minor growth of other emergents such as Eleocharis palustris, Equisetum fluviatile, Phragmites australis or – the true bulrush – Schoenoplectis lacustris.
Ecology
These stands occur in the lowlands along the margins of lakes, ditches and canals.
Sub-communities
No sub-communities are currently described.
Similar communities
This is a distinct community which should be easily recognised.
Conservation value
This is a species-poor plant community (species/4 m2 = 3.1, n = 7) but it can support the EU HD Annex II species Desmoulin’s whorl snail (Vertigo moulinsiana).
Management
These swamp stands are essentially unmanaged. The main threats to them are through eutrophication and drainage.