Curved Sedge
Carex maritima
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carex_maritima
Overview
Carex maritima, aptly named curved sedge in English, is a species of flowering plant in the sedge family which occurs throughout the subarctic regions and in mountains as far south as North Africa. It grows in sandy and grassy places on beaches or eroding mountainsides, in populations that fluctuate dramatically according to the stability of the vegetation. It is considered rare and threatened towards the southern edge of its range.
Curved Sedge faces significant threats from coastal development and habitat modification along its specialized shoreline environments. Rising sea levels and increased storm intensity due to climate change pose additional risks to its narrow coastal habitat range, while human activities including recreation and infrastructure development continue to degrade suitable sites.
Habitat
Curved Sedge inhabits coastal salt marshes, sandy shores, and rocky coastlines, typically growing in saline or brackish conditions near the high tide mark. The species is adapted to maritime environments with salt spray exposure and periodic tidal influence.
Other threatened species in Cyperaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Curved Sedge classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Curved Sedge live?
What are the main threats to Curved Sedge?
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