Long-Term Ecological Research/VCR005: Marsh Grass Aboveground and Belowground Net Primary Production

LTER/VCR005: The purpose of this study is to compare (a) aboveground annual net primary production, (b) belowground annual net primary production, and (c) evapotranspiration of Spartina alterniflora along a transect across VCR. Permanent sampling sites were established during the first year on the mainland side near Brownsville, at a mid-bay island, and on the back side of Hog Island. Additional sites may be added in subsequent years. The objectives of the study are to compare primary production along gradients of differing geomorphological, hydrological, and geochemical conditions. Aboveground primary production of marsh cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) has been established on a series of permanent plots. The methodology, developed by James T. Morris at the North Inlet LTER site, utilizes length-weight relationships of permanently marked plants. Sediment pore-water chemistry and hydrology are being monitored at the same sites. Information about LTER is also available at 'http://lternet.edu/'