How do you expect pink muhly grass to be affected by changes to its ecosystem?

How is it expected – or how do you expect it - for the pink muhly grass to be affected by changes to this (the High Line in NYC) ecosystem in the future? What are those changes? I am currently researching the pink muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaries) within its ecosystem at the High Line in NYC for my Sustainable Systems class at Parsons School of Design. I would love to hear an expert's input on my specific question about future changes to its ecosystem.

Answer

Muhlenbergia is a very resilient plant that is native to most of the eastern US. A plant that is at home as far south as Florida will be likely to accept any gradual change in warming temperatures in our area. It requires bright sun, freely draining soil and supplemental water in times of drought; it does not like to be over-watered. If you anticipate, as part of your study, that any of those conditions will be significantly affected by environmental change, it could compromise this plant.

Grass plants are largely reliant on wind as a pollen vector and seed distribution mechanism, so changes in wind pattern could affect the distribution and reproduction of this plant. 

The plant is tolerant of pollution and acid soil so it is well suited to reasonable increases in toxic emissions.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information

  • Last Updated Jul 20, 2018
  • Views 114
  • Answered By Anita Finkle

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