Cyperus erythrorhizos
| Redroot flatsedge | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Monocots |
| Clade: | Commelinids |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Cyperaceae |
| Genus: | Cyperus |
| Species: | C. erythrorhizos
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| Binomial name | |
| Cyperus erythrorhizos | |
| Synonyms[1] | |
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Cyperus erythrorhizos is a species of sedge known by the common names red-rooted flatsedge[2] or redroot flatsedge.[3] It is found across much of North America from Maine, Ontario[2][1] and British Columbia[4] south to Tabasco in southern Mexico.[5][6][7][8]
Cyperus erythrorhizos is a plant of wet areas such as rivers and ditches, generally at low elevations. It gets its common and scientific names from the red color of its roots. This sedge grows to a maximum of a meter in height, but is usually quite a bit shorter. It may have a number of long, wispy leaves around the base of the plant. The inflorescence may contain one to several spikes, each spike containing 20 to over 100 spikelets. Each spikelet is light greenish brown to reddish brown and is made up of up to 30 bracted flowers. The fruit is a glossy achene about a millimetre long.[2]
Cyperus erythrorhizos plays a crucial ecological role in its native habitats, serving as an important component of wetland ecosystems. Its presence contributes to habitat stability, providing erosion control along waterways and serving as a refuge for various aquatic and terrestrial species. The dense root system of this sedge helps to stabilize soil, preventing sediment runoff and filtering pollutants from water sources, thereby improving water quality. Furthermore, the foliage of Cyperus erythrorhizos offers cover and nesting sites for amphibians, reptiles, birds, and small mammals, enhancing biodiversity within wetland habitats.
Throughout history, indigenous peoples have utilized Cyperus erythrorhizos for various purposes, tapping into its ecological and medicinal properties. The fibrous roots of this sedge were traditionally used for weaving baskets, mats, and other woven goods by Native American tribes across its range. Additionally, certain indigenous groups recognized the medicinal value of Cyperus erythrorhizos, employing it in traditional herbal remedies to treat ailments such as digestive disorders, inflammation, and skin conditions. The plant's rich cultural significance persists today, as it continues to be revered for its practical and medicinal attributes within certain communities.
In modern times, Cyperus erythrorhizos faces threats from habitat loss and degradation due to urbanization, agriculture, and invasive species encroachment. Wetland drainage and conversion for development projects have resulted in the decline of suitable habitat for this species, diminishing its populations in some regions. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving and restoring wetland habitats are crucial for safeguarding Cyperus erythrorhizos and other vulnerable species that rely on these ecosystems. By prioritizing habitat conservation, sustainable land management practices, and public awareness initiatives, stakeholders can work towards ensuring the continued survival and ecological significance of this important wetland plant species.
See also
References
- ^ a b Kew World Checklist of Selected Plant Families
- ^ a b c Flora of North America, Vol. 23 Page 172, Cyperus erythrorhizos Muhlenberg, Descr. Gram. 20. 1817.
- ^ USDA Plants Profile
- ^ Douglas, G.W., Meidinger, D. & Penny, J.L. (2002). Rare Native Vascular Plants of British Columbia, ed. 2: 1-358. Province of British Columbia.
- ^ Novelo, A. & L. Ramos. 2005. Vegetación acuática. Cap. 5: 111–144. In J. Bueno, F Álvarez & S. Santiago. Biodiversidad del Estado de Tabasco. CONABIO-UNAM, México.
- ^ Pérez J., L. A., M. Sousa Sánchez, A. M. Hanan-Alipi, F. Chiang Cabrera & P. Tenorio L. 2005. Vegetación terrestre. 65–110. In J. Bueno, F Álvarez & S. Santiago. Biodiversidad del Estado de Tabasco. CONABIO-UNAM, México.
- ^ Tucker, G. C. 1994. Revision of the Mexican species of Cyperus (Cyperaceae). Systematic Botany Monographs 43: 1–213.
- ^ Espejo Serna, A. & López-Ferrari, A.R. (1997). Las Monocotiledóneas Mexicanas una Sinopsis Florística 5: 1-98. Consejo Nacional de la Flora de México, México D.F.
External links
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