SafePlants

Spruce Muskeg Sedge (Carex lugens)

Carex lugens, commonly known as Spruce Muskeg Sedge, is a perennial graminoid belonging to the genus Carex. It is often found in bog and muskeg environments.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carex lugens T. Holm
• Common Name: Spruce Muskeg Sedge
• Kingdom: (Not specified in text)
• Family (Scientific): Cyperaceae (Sedge family)
• Genus: Carex
• Species: lugens
• Synonyms:
  • Carex bigelowii subsp. lugens (T. Holm) T.V. Egorova

Distribution and Habitat

• Carex lugens is associated with muskeg and bog landscapes, particularly in cool, northern climates.
• It is found in locations such as Alaska and the Yukon, often in association with black spruce and tamarack trees.
• Specific locations mentioned include Idaho Inlet on Chichagof Island, Tongass National Forest, Alaska.
• Also commonly found in Northern Sedge Meadow and Marsh, Black Spruce, Tamarack habitats.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Carex lugens is a perennial, meaning it grows year after year.
• It is described as a loosely caespitose sedge, originating from a short, ascending rhizome.
• The plant is associated with sedge meadows and can form mats in inundated areas.

Ecological Role

• Carex lugens is a characteristic species of muskeg environments.
• Muskegs are acidic wetlands with varying compositions from sphagnum moss to sedge peat and decomposed humus.
• The presence and depth of peat influences the plant composition of bog and muskeg areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Associated with Archips packardiana (spring spruce needle moth), Argyrotaenia occultana (fall spruce needle moth), and Carduelis spinus (Spruce Siskin).

Further Information

• Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Carex lugens.
• NatureServe: natureserve.org
• Flickr: flickr.com