Community analysis of pitcher plant bogs of the Little River Canyon National Preserve, Alabama
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Pitcher plant bogs of the Little River Canyon National Preserve in northern Alabama contain the federally endangered green pitcher plant [Sarracenia oreophila (Kearney) Wherry]. Multivariate analysis of the bog vegetation and environmental variables revealed three communities with unique species compositions and soil characteristics. The significant soil characteristics were percent A-horizon sand and A-horizon depth. A blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica Marsh.)-yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.)-azalea [Rhododendron canescens (Michx.) Sweet] type was found on sites bisected by ephemeral streams with a closed canopy. A scarlet oak (Quercus coccinea Muenchh.) -flowering dogwood (Cornus florida L.) -sweet goldenrod [Solidago speciosa Nutt. var. erecta (Pursh) MacM.] type was found on upland sites close to the canyon rim and along perennial streams sites. A smooth yellow false foxglove [Aureolaria flava (L.) Farw.]-pale-spike lobelia (Lobelia spicata Lam.)- violet lespedeza [Lespedeza violacea (L.) Pers.] type was found on relatively flat sites away from the canyon rim.