SM6C Agrostis stolonifera – Potentilla anserina grassland


  • Saltmarsh (SM)
  • SM6 Agrostis stolonifera – Juncus gerardii group
  • SM6C Agrostis stolonifera – Potentilla anserina grassland
Scientific name:
Agrostis stolonifera – Potentilla anserina
Common name:
Creeping Bent – Silverweed
Community code:
SM6C
Full PDF Synopsis

SM6C Agrostis stolonifera – Potentilla anserina grassland

Vegetation

This variable community is typically dominated by a combination of Potentilla anserina and Agrostis stolonifera. Juncus gerardii is frequently found. Glaux maritima and Leontodon autumnalis are occasional while Trifolium repens, Rumex crispus and Lotus corniculatus are the most likely of other species to be seen. Less frequently, one will find species indicative of freshwater conditions such as Carex nigra and Mentha aquatica.

Ecology

This community has predominantly been defined based on data from upper saltmarshes and lagoon margins that are infrequently inundated by saline or brackish water. However, it also provides a home for some inland swards dominated by Agrostis stolonifera and Potentilla anserina that may be periodically inundated by freshwater. Conditions are circumneutral.

Sub-communities

Two sub-communities are described. The Juncus gerardii sub-community (SM6Ci) represents coastal saltmarsh swards whilst the Rumex crispus – Galium palustre sub-community (SM6Cii) represents swards occurring more inland

Similar communities

This community differs from other saltmarsh types in the abundance of Potentilla anserina. It has some similarities to FE3B Carex nigra – Potentilla anserina fen, but in that community Carex nigra is abundant.

Conservation value

Examples of this vegetation supporting saltmarsh indicators such as Juncus gerardii and Glaux maritima should qualify as EU HD Annex I habitat 1330 Atlantic salt meadows. Compared with other saltmarsh communities, it is diverse (species/4 m2 = 9.3, n = 40). Centaurium pulchellum is a nationally rare species listed on the Floral Protection Order, 2015.

Management

The main immediate threat to saltmarsh examples of this community is probably grazing by livestock. Sea-level rises as a result of climate change will have an impact, particularly in areas susceptible to coastal squeeze.

  • Contact Us
  • +353 51 306 240
  • National Biodiversity Data Centre
    Beechfield House,
    Waterford Institute of Technology West Campus,
    Carriganore,
    Co. Waterford,
    Ireland.
    X91 PE03

Download our free smartphone app for recording in the field
Android App
Apple App

The National Biodiversity Data Centre is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Register Number: 730718.

 

  • Privacy
We made this!
  • Home
  • About
    • Global Biodiversity Information Facility
      • Ireland’s GBIF profile
      • The GBIF Network
      • Latest news at GBIF
      • GBIF Science Review
    • Strategic Objectives
  • Monitoring & tracking change
  • Assisting conservation
  • Ireland’s Biodiversity Learning Platform
  • Workshops
  • Publications
  • Biodiversity Ireland’s Top 10
  • Videos
  • Shop
  • News and Events
    • Distinguished Recorder Award
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. You can view our privacy policy here.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non Necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Save & Accept