Effects of periodical cutting management of Phragmites communis on species composition of plant communities

Abstract

Investigations of environmental factors and plant community structures were conducted to find the relationship between periodical cuttings of Phragmites communis and species composition of plant communities. Quadrats at of P. communis communities with periodical cuttings have more plant species than those without cuttings. Carex species were more abundant in terms of species and individual numbers in Quadrats with periodical cuttings. Cover degree of P. communis tended to be lower in Quadrats with periodical cuttings than in those without cuttings, especially in spring. Height of the plant community in Quadrats with periodical cuttings also tended to be lower in spring, but was almost similar height with those without cuttings in autumn. Those facts suggested that periodical cutting management affected coverage and height of P. communis in spring and created more suitable habitat for plant species in open wetland such as Carex spp.