Elaeagnus Angustifolia and Tamarix Ramossisima :: Agriculture Plants Environment Essays Papers

Elaeagnus Angustifolia and Tamarix Ramossisima Introduction The topic that is going to be discussed is the Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) and the Salt cedar (Tamarix ramossisima). Both of these species are noxious weeds that are also non-native plants that were brought over from Europe. Both of these subjects history, where they originated, and where they occupy will be covered. Also both of their economic advantages as well as their disadvantages will also be discussed. Salt Cedar The salt cedar is believed to have originated from southern Europe, the Mediterranean region, the Middle East, and Africa. Out of the 54 species known worldwide eight of them preside and have been introduced into the U.S... A brief description of this species is that it can grow up to 5 to 20 feet tall. The reason for the great distance in size is because they are divided into two groups, which are similar to the evergreen tree or a deciduous shrubby type species. It was mainly used as an ornamental landscaping plant on the sides of roads. The reason why this tree was chosen is because of its ability to survive in a variety of areas and because it is very adaptable and tolerant. However, because of some of these traits it also ended up becoming a hassle. Other traits that make it a lot of trouble is it is able to produce rapidly from hundreds to thousands of seeds being dispersed. These seeds are numerous but what makes the matter worse is that after being exposed to moisture it only takes the seedling 24 hours to germinate making it able to reproduce at an astounding rate. Which means more plants competing in an ecosystem that has been changed to the salt cedar conditions. This is done by the salt cedar through its glands that release salts in its leaves and younger stems that when they fall to the ground it makes the soil no to the standards of many of the other species of plants in the area reducing diversity in the area. They are also less tolerable to fire, which causes them to burn easier and allows the fire to spread in a wider area. However, the advantage they have over the other plants after this occurs is that they are able to recover faster than other species because they have become better adapted to fires. The ones that grow near streams and other water sources narrow channels causing an increase in the water flow, which can eventually lead to flooding.