Reed cover: description and role in the ecosystem

Coastal reed thickets are familiar to everyone, since this plant grows practically on the whole territory of Russia. At the same time, it does not matter where to germinate: for running water or for standing water. But the most interesting thing is that over the years man has learned to use reeds not only for landscaping water bodies, but also for the production of many materials.

Reed thickets

Reeds or reeds are a water plant of the family of cereals. To date, scientists number about 40 of its subspecies. Only 20 of them are growing on the territory of the Russian Federation. The most common are lake, forest and marsh reeds.

Outwardly reed thickets can be easily distinguished by long, flexible, knee-like stems. Their trunks are empty inside. The top of the shoot ends with a branching panicle, and in some types - with a rocking chair.

Growing reed thickets from late March to September-October. In this case, the green part of the plant develops only in the warm period, and the roots continue to grow even after the onset of small colds.

Meaning for Ecology

In the aquatic environment, reed beds serve as a natural filter. They pass water through themselves, restraining dirt and debris. They are also an excellent shelter for small inhabitants of rivers and lakes, protecting them from larger predators.

However, over the years the plant can turn into a real pest. Possessing a high rate of reproduction, the reed quickly fills the water space, thereby swamping it. Therefore, in private reservoirs, they try to mow the reed beds in time, in order to maintain a fragile balance in the ecosystem.

Plant and Man

In ancient times the reed was grinded into flour. This is due to the fact that its roots contain a large amount of starch, which in itself is an excellent source of calories. In addition, plant shoots have long been used as a building material. For example, the Slavs sheltered the roof, and also made partitions for the walls.

Today, reed is used in production as a valuable source of pulp. This substance consists of as much as 60% of the stem of the plant, and 25% is contained in its leaves. In addition, the cane is purchased by farmers as animal feed.