Comparison of natural and man-made salt marshes in Galveston Bay Complex, Texas.

Date

1985

Authors

Webb, J.W.
Newling, C.J.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

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Abstract

Vegetation characteristics of three natural marshes and one marsh that was experimentally established on dredged material in 1976 and 1977 were compared in the Galveston Bay Complex, Texas. During fall 1978, six replicate samples of below-ground and above-ground measurements were taken at each of three elevations. Five elevations were sampled in 1979. Greater quantities of live above-ground measurements were taken at each of three elevations. Five elevations were sampled in 1979. Greater quantities of live above-ground biomass per m2 were collected at the man-made marsh than at natural marsh areas. The broad range of values for each of the vegetation parameters measured in each marsh, and the variation by elevation indicated that differences probably were not related to experimental establishment. Differences probably reflected enviromental conditions at each area. Below-ground biomass was less in the artificial marsh than at natural marsh areas. The low root biomass in comparison to natural sites indicated that the experimental marsh at Bolivar Peninsula was still in an early stage of development.

Description

p. 75-86.

Keywords

salt marshes, abundance, vegetation cover, botany, dredge spoil, habitat improvement

Citation