Vegetative analysis of Muhly hillslope seeps in North Central, Texas

Abstract

This study describes the vegetation and soils of one Muhly seep toposequence and compares species compositions between three study sites in North Central Texas. Muhlenbergia reverchonii, Carex microdonta, and either Eleocharis montevidensis or Eleocharis occulta are species found on every Muhly seep, particularly in depression areas. Muhlenbergia reverchonii is present but not always dominant species in the barrens. Bands of Schizachyrium scoparium and Andropogon gerardii are found in areas with deep, well-drained soils that are topographically higher and lower than hillslope seeps. Muhly seeps meet the hydrologic criterion for wetlands delineation but only certain sections meet the hydrophytic criterion. Hydric soils were not present, although ephemerally hydric soils may exist. As such, Muhly hillslope seeps are not protected under by the USACE, although they may be classified as a new type of wetland: a hyperseasonal wetland. Further research is required to determine the impact of Muhly seeps on prairie ecosystems.