Abstract
Abstract. The peatlands of Atlantic Canada are classified in four plant alliances, consisting of 10 plant associations. The four plant alliances comprise the dry bog communities (Kalmio‐Cladonion Wells 1981), wet bog communities (Scirpo‐Sphagnion Wells 1981), hummock and ridge communities of slope and string fens (Betulo‐Sphagnion Wells all. nov.), and poor, intermediate and rich fen plant communities (Scirpo‐Myricion Wells 1981). Distribution maps are presented for relevés in each of the 10 associations. Based on species distributions, floristic regions are defined for peatlands in Atlantic Canada. Nutritional characteristics are also described for each plant association. pH and total soil concentrations of calcium, nitrogen and iron proved reliable in separating bog from fen. A boundary between ombrotrophic peatlands and minerotrophic peatlands is suggested, based on a soil pH of 4.0, total soil concentrations of 3.0 mg g−1 Ca, 4.0 mg g−1 Fe, 13.0 mg g−1 N and a Ca/Mg ratio of 2.5. Comparisons between the syntaxa for peatlands in Atlantic Canada and those in Europe are discussed for higher taxa. The possibility of establishing a new order (Chamaedaphno‐Scirpetalia Wells ord. nov.) for peatlands in Atlantic Canada is also discussed.
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