Floristics of Ephemeral Ponds in East-central Texas

Abstract

Abstract Beginning in 2009, we surveyed the vegetation of ephemeral ponds in Sabine and Nacogdoches counties in east-central Texas. These ponds are shallow and flat-bottomed, with a small but distinct flora dominated by grasses (Poaceae) and sedges (Cyperaceae). The floras of these ponds are most similar to those of flatwoods ponds located on the lower coastal plain. Once more common on the landscape, ponds of this type have been altered or destroyed by land-use changes and fire suppression, leading to massive encroachment of woody vegetation. The pond we sampled in Nacogdoches County has been regularly mowed for approximately 30 years to prevent woody encroachment. Currently, prescribed burning in late summer and mechanical removal of encroaching woody vegetation are being applied to better understand management options that will maintain and restore the ponds we sampled and similar sites in east-central Texas. These and other natural ponds in the West Gulf Coastal Plain have not been comprehensively stu...