It’s a golden refuge for life of all kinds
By Tess Malone
The brilliant hue of Spartina alterniflora in fall gives the Golden Isles their name‚ while the grass grows emerald in spring and summer. All year long‚ it sustains an abundant ecosystem. Marsh grass feeds aquatic residents. Periwinkle snails and manatees munch on it‚ while fiddler crabs use it for shelter and make sure the snails don’t overindulge. These aquatic residents‚ in turn‚ feed mammals and birds‚ from eye-catching roseate spoonbills foraging at low tide to covert mink. Seafood restaurants can thank it for their catches. Dead grass washes up on beaches‚ providing a home for crabs‚ clams‚ oysters‚ shrimp‚ and fish. It’s nature’s filter. Sediment in spartina traps pesticides‚ heavy metals‚ nutrients‚ and other toxins from the water. Storms are no match. It acts as a buffer against erosion from heavy tides and hurricane damage. It’s pretty‚ but don’t pocket it. Collection is illegal thanks to the Coastal Marshlands Protection Act passed in 1970.
