XVI International Botanical Congess

Introduced Spartina species, including S. alterniflora, S. anglica, S. patens, and S. densiflora have invaded intertidal mudflats and native saltmarsh communities around the world. Most Spartina introductions have been intentional. Proponents of Spartina introductions have argued that these vigorous grasses are valuable for shoreline stabilization and saltmarsh restoration. A growing body of research has begun to document dramatic community and ecosystem level effects of Spartina invasions. The abundance of many taxa, ranging from insects to birds, has been affected. On two separate occasions, introduced S. alterniflora has hybridized with native Spartina species, resulting in the rapid spread of hybrids. Proposals for future introductions should be carefully weighted against known problems and costs associated with Spartina invasions.