Spartina in new zealand

Abstract

Descriptions of, and keys to the three species of Spartina in New Zealand: S. alterniflora, S. anglica, S. × townsendii, are presented with distribution maps for each. The introduction, history, planting, and spread of each species is discussed as is its ecology, especially in relation to past and future potential for spread. In some places the problems caused by its spread are virtually insurmountable. With renewed appreciation of estuarine wetlands in their natural states, planting of any species of Spartina around the coast of New Zealand should not be allowed to take place. Suitable control and eradication measures need to be developed where Spartina is already present. © 1987 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.