Abstract
Variation in growth habit between British populations of Ammophila arenaria, and its intergeneric hybrid, x Calammophila baltica was investigated. Competition between the two species was examined with a de Wit type competition experiment. The morphology of the species was found to be significantly different in terms of flowering, leaf dimensions, and tillering and branching patterns. It was found that they competed for the same space, except when nutrients were added and there was space for rhizome extension. These results imply that when planting for sand dune conservation, both species should be utilized in a mixed sward, with fertilizer added in a mulch.
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Nomenclature follows Tutin et al. (1964–80), except in the use of x Calammophila baltica (Flügge) Brand (= x Ammocalamagrostis baltica) (Schrad.) (P. Fourn.), see Rauschert (1977).
We would like to thank the East Anglian, Northumberland and Dorset Regional Nature Conservancy Councils for permission to work on their Nature Reserves. Members of the Department of Biology at the University of Southampton, particularly Dr P. J. Edwards, Dr R. J. White and Dr M. Fenner gave valuable assistance with the preparation of this manuscript. Mr C. L. Rihan helped to sort out the geomorphological aspects. The work was supported in part by a NERC/CASE postgraduate award to one of us (JRR), who would also like to acknowledge the assistance of Dr J. Smartt.
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Rihan, J.R., Gray, A.J. Ecology of the hybrid Marram Grass x Calammophila baltica in Britain. Vegetatio 61, 203–208 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00039826
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00039826