Common (Translated Scientific) Name: White Fir - Box-elder / Thinleaf Alder Riparian Forest

Colloquial Name: No Data Available

Hierarchy Level:  Association

Type Concept: This white fir forest association is only known to occur at Bandelier National Monument in north-central New Mexico. The current description is based on data received from there and will be updated when additional inventory data are available. This association occurs on toeslopes and alluvial bottom terraces in riparian zones between 1800 and 2200 m (6000-7250 feet) in elevation. Slopes are gentle (4-12%) and aspects are variable. The vegetation within this riparian forest is characterized by a closed (60-90% cover), complex canopy composed of a mix of conifer and broadleaf deciduous trees. Typically, Abies concolor dominates with Pseudotsuga menziesii and Pinus ponderosa as codominant or subdominant associates. The broadleaf Acer negundo dominates the subcanopy along with Alnus incana ssp. tenuifolia. Betula occidentalis, Quercus gambelii, and Prunus serotina are occasional associates. Shrubs are poorly represented, while the herbaceous layer can be rich and abundant in cover and characterized by a mix of mesic forest and riparian species. Among graminoids, Oryzopsis asperifolia is the most frequent and well-represented. Forbs can be abundant and include facultative wetland species such as Equisetum laevigatum and Hydrophyllum fendleri along with mesic forest species such as Thalictrum fendleri, Galium aparine, Viola canadensis, and Valeriana edulis.

Diagnostic Characteristics: No Data Available

Rationale for Nominal Species or Physiognomic Features: No Data Available

Classification Comments: No Data Available

Similar NVC Types: No Data Available

note: No Data Available