Alopecurus aequalis

Alopecurus aequalis Sobol.

Orange foxtail

Status: not scarce 

This species is found on the margins of shallow ponds, of gravel pits and of reservoirs, always in the proximity of fresh water. It is not often seen in shallow water but occurs on mud as the water level recedes. In some of the Breckland meres, where the water level fluctuates markedly from year to year, it can occur in great abundance. Its associates in these meres include Agrostis stolonifera, Chenopodium rubrum, Juncus articulatus, Mentha aquatica, Myosoton aquaticum, Oenanthe aquatica, Persicaria amphibia, Phalaris arundinacea, Potentilla anserina, Rorippa amphibia, R. palustris, Rumex maritimus and Sagina nodosa.

It is an annual plant, which reproduces by seed. Culms ascend from a decumbent base and root at the nodes, a habit which adds to the density of the colony. Populations vary greatly in number from year to year, being largest when water levels are low and much mud is exposed. In years of high water level the plant may only be present as dormant seed.

In the long term this species may be considered under threat. Old ponds have been reclaimed and many wet habitats have been drained. Suitable remaining habitats are in danger of pollution. It has, however, recently been seen as a weed in a number of aquatic garden centres and it might therefore be expected to spread into garden ponds. 

This is a widespread species which occurs in the boreal and temperate zones throughout the northern hemisphere. In Europe it is rare in the oceanic western fringe and virtually absent from the Mediterranean region.

P. J. O. Trist