Seasonal ionic fluctuations in a Phragmites communis community

Abstract

Calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and phosphorus concentrations were measured in the shoots of a Phragmites communis community and its natural substrates during the growth season of 1969. Shoot length and shoot moisture were determined as indicators of physiological age. In addition, organic decay was followed by determination of the soil organic matter content and cation exchange capacity. Of the ions studied, calcium apparently increased in the shoot tissue, and magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus apparently decreased in the shoot tissue during the course of the growing season. Some speculations regarding the direction of net nutrient on flow in this community are advanced.