dominated by Spartina gracilis in the SPAPEC habitat type, even though this species is 

 characterized as reaching its highest cover values under subsaHne conditions (Stewart 1 972), a 

 higher range than S. pectinata. Culwell and Scow (1982) sampled Spartina pectinata communities 

 from eastern Montana in Custer County with similarities to both of our plots. Our combined data 

 support recognition of a distinct phase (SPAPEC - SCIPUN) distinguished by having Scirpus 

 pungens well represented and Equisetum laevigatum present. 



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