SWAP Habitat
Introduced Annual Grassland
NVC Name
Western North American Cool Semi-Desert Ruderal Scrub & Grassland (M499)
SWAP General Vegetation Type
INTRODUCED & SEMI-NATURAL VEGETATION
Annual grasslands are exotic dry grasslands, forb-dominated meadows, or shrublands that occur in cool semi-arid climates of semi-desert basins, piedmonts, and foothills (possibly extending into lower montane zones on warm aspects). Vegetation may be a monoculture of a single non-native graminoid species, or a mix of several non-native forbs and graminoids. The dominant graminoids are crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum) and cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). Other non-native forb species include herb sophia (Descurainia sophia), redstem stork’s bill (Erodium cicutarium), and saltlover (Halogeton glomeratus). Native ruderal species may dominate due to anthropogenic disturbance. Stands occur on flat to moderately steep ground and can cover large areas or narrow strips adjacent to roadsides or under powerlines and other disturbed areas. Soils mostly are mineral, well-drained, and may be compacted and eroded with biological crusts absent because of disturbance.

Species that live in Introduced Annual Grassland

Threats and Conservation Actions

Result for: All
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