Factors Affecting the Survival of the Rare Plant, Sagittaria fasciculata E.O. Beal (Alismataceae)

Sagittaria fasciculata E.O. Beal is an aquatic plant endemic to two counties of the Carolinas. It occurs in partially shaded, constantly flowing seeps over a substrate consisting of a hydrated muck-sand suspension. Stagnation of the water flow, disturbance by man or cattle and periods of very rapid flow result in reduced population densities. Other species, notably Murdannia keisak, stabilize the soil, shade, and probably compete with Sagittaria for nutrients. Weeded plots of Sagittaria show increased numbers of plants and increased flower production. Weeding, therefore, may prove a valuable tool in managing preserves for S. fasciculata.