SafePlants

Carex geophila - White Mountain Sedge

Carex geophila, commonly known as White Mountain Sedge, is a species of sedge found in specific regions of North America. The text offers insights into its taxonomy, distribution, and ecological role.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex geophila Mackenzie
• Common Name: White Mountain Sedge
• Family: Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Carex pityophila Mackenzie

Distribution and Habitat

• The White Mountain Sedge is notably found in the Presidential Range within the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
• It prefers upper elevation mountain slopes.
• Specifically, it inhabits the highest alpine zone.

Ecological Role

• Bigelow's Sedge (Carex bigelowii) is highlighted as a crucial component of the White Mountain Sedge's environment.
• Bigelow's Sedge serves as the host plant for the White Mountain Arctic butterfly.
• There is concern that climate change and the shrinking of alpine areas could eliminate suitable habitat for Bigelow's sedge, potentially impacting the White Mountain Arctic butterfly.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The White Mountain Arctic butterfly (Oeneis melissa semidea) relies on Bigelow's sedge (Carex bigelowii) as a host plant during its larval stage.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex geophila.
• Additional information may be available from the U.S.D.A. Forest Service, White Mountain National Forest in Laconia, NH.
• The New England Plant Conservation Program has information on Carex wiegandii (Wiegand's sedge).
• NIISS.org provides species profiles, including habitat, control, and invasion information.