Exploring Spartina anglica’s decline, this study examines growth patterns, biomass distribution, and implications for controlling invasive species through clonal plant research.

The clonal plant Spartinaanglica is currently experiencing severe natural decline (Dieback) in my country. In order to elucidate the mechanism of Spartinaanglica decline, the correlation between the factors affecting the morphological plasticity of Spartinaanglica and the natural decline was analyzed, with a view to identifying closely related plants. This study provides a reference for the biological control of the outbreak population of S. alterniflora, and studies the clonal growth, biomass accumulation and distribution and heterogeneity of Spartina alterniflora with three different initial clonal ramet numbers (single clone, triple clone and five clones). Field cultivation experiments were carried out for the rapid growth characteristics. The research results show that the initial clonal ramet number has a weak effect on the spacer length; the branch strength of the initial polyclonal is higher than that of the initial monoclonal; the initial three-clonal and five-clonal clones have higher differences in total biomass (7.9215-10.4317g and 8.9039-10.4317g), The accumulation of aboveground biomass (3.3961¡«4.2558g and 3.6184¡«4.3389g), underground biomass (4.2869¡«5.2066g and 5.2988¡«6.0793g) and rhizome biomass (1.3186¡«1.7677g and 1.4991¡«2.0387g) were all significant. Higher than the initial single clone, there is no significant difference in root biomass under different initial clone ramet numbers; the initial polyclonal tends to allocate more resources to rhizomes, while the initial single clone tends to allocate more resources to the root system . It can be inferred that under different initial clonal ramet numbers, the differences in morphological plasticity and biomass distribution pattern of Spartina show that under the same resource pattern, the clonal reproductive capacity of initial polyclones is stronger than that of initial monoclonals. The initially polyclonal Spartina growth can occupy the dominant habitat better than the initial monoclonal Spartina growth, and has a stronger ability to select habitats for “foraging” and clonal reproduction.

Research Objectives and Methodology

In recent times, the clonal plant *Spartina anglica* has been subject to intense scrutiny due to its significant natural decline, often referred to as dieback, within our nation. This concerning phenomenon has prompted a deeper exploration into the underlying mechanisms of this decline, focusing on the intricate relationship between the morphological plasticity of *Spartina anglica* and its natural reduction. The objective of this study is twofold: to provide a foundational understanding that may aid in the biological control of *S. alterniflora*’s burgeoning population and to investigate the clonal growth patterns, biomass accumulation, and the distribution and heterogeneity of *Spartina alterniflora* across varying initial clonal ramet counts.

Findings on Clonal Growth and Biomass Accumulation

This research utilizes field cultivation experiments to examine the rapid growth characteristics of *Spartina alterniflora* with different initial clonal ramet numbers: single, triple, and quintuple clones. The findings reveal that the initial number of clonal ramets exerts a minimal influence on the spacer length; however, polyclonal branches exhibit greater vigor compared to monoclonal counterparts. Notably, the triple and quintuple clonal configurations demonstrated significantly higher variations in total biomass (ranging from 7.9215 to 10.4317g and 8.9039 to 10.4317g, respectively), aboveground biomass (3.3961 to 4.2558g and 3.6184 to 4.3389g, respectively), belowground biomass (4.2869 to 5.2066g and 5.2988 to 6.0793g, respectively), and rhizome biomass (1.3186 to 1.7677g and 1.4991 to 2.0387g, respectively), compared to the singular clonal arrangements. Interestingly, the root biomass remained consistent across different initial clonal ramet numbers, indicating a strategic resource allocation pattern: polyclonal entities tend to invest more in rhizomes, whereas monoclonals favor root system development.

Strategic Resource Allocation and Reproductive Capacity

These distinctions in morphological plasticity and biomass distribution under varying clonal ramet numbers underscore a crucial aspect of *Spartina*’s growth dynamics. In environments with identical resource availability, polyclonal *Spartina* exhibits a superior clonal reproductive capacity over monoclonal configurations. This advantage translates into a heightened capability of polyclonal *Spartina* to dominate habitable spaces, showcasing an enhanced aptitude for environmental “foraging” and clonal propagation.

Implications for Ecological Management and Conservation

The implications of this study extend beyond the immediate concern of *Spartina anglica*’s decline, offering insights into the broader ecological dynamics at play. By understanding the factors that influence *Spartina*’s morphological plasticity and biomass distribution, we can devise more effective strategies for the biological control of invasive species such as *S. alterniflora*. Furthermore, this research illuminates the potential for clonal diversity to enhance habitat dominance and reproductive success, providing a reference point for future studies on plant behavior and ecosystem management. The findings of this study not only contribute to our comprehension of *Spartina*’s decline but also underscore the complexity of plant-environment interactions, paving the way for innovative conservation and management practices.

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Original research was done by Zhao Lei, Zhi Yingbiao, Li Hongli, An Shuqing, Deng Zizi, Zhou Changfang

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