Coastal reed thickets are familiar to everyone, as this plant grows almost throughout Russia. At the same time, it does not matter at all where to germinate: near running water or stagnant water. But the most interesting thing is that over the years, people have learned to use reeds not only for landscaping water bodies, but also for the production of many materials.
Reed thickets
Reed or reed is an aquatic plant of the grass family. To date, scientists have about 40 of its subspecies. Only 20 of them grow on the territory of the Russian Federation. The most common are lake, forest and marsh reeds.
Outwardly reed thickets can be easily distinguished by long, flexible, knee-shaped stems. Their trunks are empty inside. The tip of the shoot ends with a branchy panicle, and in some species - a rocking chair.
Reed thickets grow from the end of March to September-October. At the same time, the green part of the plant develops only in the warm period, and the roots continue to grow even after the onset ofsmall chills.
Environmental value
In the aquatic environment, reeds serve as a natural filter. They allow water to pass through them, holding back dirt and debris. They also provide excellent hiding places for small river and lake dwellers, protecting them from larger predators.
However, over the years, the plant can turn into a real pest. Possessing a high reproduction rate, the reed quickly fills the water space, thereby swamping it. Therefore, in private reservoirs, they try to mow reed thickets in time in order to maintain a delicate balance in the ecosystem.
Plant and man
In ancient times, cane was ground into flour. This is due to the fact that its roots contain a large amount of starch, which in itself is an excellent source of calories. In addition, plant shoots have long been used as a building material. For example, the Slavs covered the roof with them, and also made partitions for the walls.
Today reeds are used in production as a valuable source of cellulose. As much as 60% of the stem of the plant consists of this substance, and 25% is contained in its leaves. In addition, farmers buy cane as animal feed.
