When it comes to spikerush, there are several creatures that rely on this plant as a source of food. Let’s explore the various animals that eat spikerush and how they benefit from it.
1. Docks: Docks, which are also known as waterfowl or water birds, are commonly found near bodies of water. They include species such as ducks, geese, and swans. These birds feed on various parts of the spikerush plant, including the seeds, shoots, and leaves. They often graze on the vegetation in shallow water, plucking the spikerush and consuming it as a part of their diet. Observing a flock of geese or a graceful swan peacefully feeding on spikerush can be a delightful sight.
2. Geese: Geese, specifically, are known to have a preference for spikerush. They feed on the seeds, rhizomes, and tubers of the plant. These waterfowl play an essential role in the dispersal of spikerush seeds, as they consume them and then distribute them through their droppings. This helps in the plant’s reproduction and dispersal, ensuring its survival and growth in different areas.
3. Muskrats: Muskrats are semi-aquatic rodents that inhabit wetland areas. They are herbivores and have a diet that includes spikerush. Muskrats consume the roots, rhizomes, and tubers of the plant, which provide them with valuable nutrients. They are known to build their homes, called lodges, using spikerush stems and other aquatic vegetation. These structures provide them with protection from predators and a safe place to rest and raise their young.
4. Nutria: Nutria, also known as coypu, are large rodents native to South America but have been introduced to various parts of the world. They are herbivores and have a diet that includes spikerush. Nutria feed on the stems, leaves, and rhizomes of the plant. Their feeding behavior can sometimes lead to the destruction of spikerush stands, affecting the overall health and abundance of the plant in certain areas. However, they also play a role in seed dispersal, similar to geese, by consuming and spreading the seeds through their droppings.
The underwater portions of spikerush, like other aquatic plants, provide essential habitats for a wide range of micro and macro invertebrates. These include insects, worms, snails, and small crustaceans. They find refuge among the submerged parts of the plant, feeding on its decaying matter and contributing to the overall biodiversity of the ecosystem.
Spikerush serves as an important food source for various animals, including docks, geese, muskrats, and nutria. These creatures rely on different parts of the plant, from seeds to rhizomes and tubers, for their nutritional needs. Additionally, the submerged portions of spikerush provide habitats for a diverse array of invertebrates, further contributing to the overall health and balance of aquatic ecosystems.
