Rush Stands
The rush stands are mostly composed of common reed (Phragmites australis) and may be found in association with other typical plants. More specifically, in drier soils we have cattails (Tipha angustifolia and T. latifolia), cyperus sedge (Carex pseudocyperus), and many others, while in peaty soils we find marsh fern (Thelypteris palustris) and yellow iris (Limniris pseudacorus).
In some areas, the rush stands constantly compete with brambles: the drier the soil, the smaller the rush stand in favour of the brambles. The rush stands are one of the most important and widespread environments in the Reserve, given that most of the animals live there or take refuge among the reeds. During migration, swallows find food and shelter at night among the rushes (as many as four different species can be found in the Reserve). Ducks, great crested grebes, grebes, and moorhens use them to build, hide, and anchor their nests.
