A contrast of plant species richness and density on moss and peat in Churchill, Canada, 2006-2007.

The relative frequencies of plants associated with the moss Dicranum elongatum or peat substrate at Churchill, Canada plateaus and other habitats. Vegetation was surveyed in the short growing seasons of 2006 and 2007 near Churchill Northern Studies Center to explore the relative importance of moss versus peat. Small flexible rings were placed on moss cushions then on the open peat. The total number of individual plants and number of unique species was recorded on each substrate. The primary habitat in tundra is comprised of peat plateau. Other habitats there were censused included coastal floodplain, shoreline, forest carex, and open forest gaps.