Common Cordgrass - Spartina anglica

Common cordgrass (fig. 1) originated in England, specifically in Southampton in the late 1800s, after the hybridisation of the non-native Spartina alterniflora and the native Spartina maritima (Lacambra et al, 2004). 

Habitat & Physical Characteristics:
Common cordgrass is found in coastal areas around the mean high-water mark, generally in marshes, mudflats, saltflats and estuarine areas (Roberts, 2008). The species is known to outcompete related species and native species, spreading quickly where conditions are favourable. Common cordgrass has upright stems and an extensive root network (rhizome) (Invasive Secies Northern Ireland, n.d.).

Range & Distribution:
The species has undergone multiple periods of rapid expansion in the UK, both naturally and due to human input. Common cordgrass can be largely be found along coastal regions of England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and is less common in Scotland (fig. 2) (NBN Atlas, 2024). This spread was initially a natural process, but in the 1920s it became intentional. The dense extensive root systems of the species mean it is effective at stabilising soils, and as such was planted widely along coastal areas to combat erosion processes and act as a coastal defence (Lacambra et al, 2004). This effectiveness at preventing coastal erosion led to the intentional introduction of the species to many countries including China, the United States, Germany, and New Zealand (fig. 3) (Roberts, 2008).

Common cord grass has not yet been found in the East Grampian coastal area.

Impacts:
There is much debate over the impact of common cordgrass. Even in the UK, opinions of the species vary by region (Lacambra et al, 2004) and evidence of the effect of common cordgrass on biodiversity can be conflicting. While it can act as a habitat for organisms, the species’ dominance can create areas of limited plant variety, which has a knock-on effect on wider biodiversity (McCorry & Otte, 2001). Additionally, its soil stabilising effect can significantly damage important estuarine, marsh and mud-flat habitats. These areas can be very important for native bird species; thus, the spread of common cordgrass could put their populations at risk (Invasive Species Northern Ireland, n.d.). 
In terms of farming, the effect of common cordgrass is more positive. They can improve agricultural soils by increasing nutrients and organic matter, and make a good food source for livestock (Lacambra et al, 2004). 

Management: 
Various management techniques have been developed for common cordgrass. Multiple herbicides can be used, in addition to a species of planthopper (Prokelisia spp.) which feeds on the leaves. Simply cutting back the plants may increase their prevalence in an area, however cutting back and then smothering (blocking sunlight), can be an effective method of removal. (Roberts, 2008).