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beach sandmat

Scientific Name: Chamaesyce degeneri

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Beach Sandmat: A Closer Look

The term "beach sandmat" appears to refer to several plant species, including Chamaesyce degeneri and Chamaesyce mesembrianthemifolia, also known as Euphorbia mesembrianthemifolia and Euphorbia degeneri. It's important to note the potential for confusion due to the use of the same common name for different scientific classifications. Additionally, "Dixie sandmat" and "seaside sandmat" are also mentioned in association with beach environments, though their exact scientific names are not specified in this text.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Names: Chamaesyce degeneri, Chamaesyce mesembrianthemifolia, Euphorbia degeneri, Euphorbia mesembrianthemifolia.
  • Common Name: Beach Sandmat, Coastal Beach Sandmat, Seaside Sandmat, Dixie Sandmat.
  • Chamaesyce degeneri is also noted as Chamaesyce degeneri (Sherff) Croizat &amp O. Deg.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Beach sandmats are found in coastal beach and dune habitats.
  • Specific locations mentioned include Florida (Fort De Soto, Pinellas County, Martin County), Hawaii (Moomomi, Molokai).
  • They are noted as part of the upper beach vegetation.

Ecological Role

  • The text mentions that beach/dune habitats are particularly important to sea turtles and beach nesting birds, suggesting a role for beach sandmats in these ecosystems.
  • One mention states "Sandmat is the least favorite plant along the beach," while another indicates the use of sandmats for habitat restoration, suggesting a complex or variable ecological role.

Morphological Characteristics

  • The text contains references to the "habit" of the plant, which describes its overall growth form.
  • Also mentioned are "flowers," though no details regarding their size or shape is specified.