Distribution of the invasive reed Phragmites australis relative to sediment depth in a created wetland

This study collected new data on sediment thickness and distribution and in tegrated it with existing data on the distribution of plant species within a small (0.5 ha) created, tidal salt marsh in Langley, Virginia, USA. The p resence of the reed Phragmites australis was found to be inversely correlat ed with sediment accumulation on the marsh surface. Sediment-deficient area s seem at a higher risk for invasion by P. australis and subsequent loss of designed marsh habitat. The results indicate that areas of low sediment ac cumulation may be used as a proxy measure for areas vulnerable to invasion. These areas can be easily delimited both in the field and on aerial photog raphy.