The aim of our project, coordinated by an international team of scientists, is to determine the current status of the two introduced Cakiles (sea rockets) on the west coast and to collect seed samples from throughout their new ranges (Mexico to Alaska).
Background The story is that the American east coast species (edentula) arrived in the 1880s and spread from southern California to Alaska. The European species (maritima) arrived in the 1930s, spread to Mexico and recently reached Alaska: in doing so, it replaced the American species completely in southern California. We have been able to piece this together using records in herbaria. If you would like to see when the species were first and last reported in your county, click on the History tab on the menu (we are still trying to confirm some of these dates). Since 1970 there have been few edentula reported south of Tillamook County, Oregon, but we think that this may be because maritima just out-numbers edentula now (and no one is interested in beach weeds). Where is the current southern limit of edentula? Will maritima continue to replace edentula northwards? We need field observations. And to learn more about the story, we would to see what their genes tell us. But the coastline is vast and we need your help.
How do I spot them? They are typically, though not always, found on sandy beaches – often the first species encountered as you walk from the sea up the shore. They are annuals, have fleshy leaves and pink, purple or white “cabbage” family (crucifer) flowers. For a guide to tell the species apart, go to the Species ID tab. When you see them side-by-side it is easy to spot the difference (but if you only have one, you might spend ages trying to tell which you have!). If in doubt, just send us a photo.
How can I help?
1) Current status. For any beach, (a) see which species you think is/are present, (b) estimate the proportions of the two species, and (c) take photos that show the fruits and leaves. Email photos and other details to Roger Cousens [email protected]
2) Seeds. Look for fruits that have started to change color or have already turned yellow/brown (if ripe, they may just drop off in your hand). Collect a handful, moving from plant to plant, and put in a paper bag. Please keep the two species separate! Take home and air-dry. Place in a paper bag in an envelope, with a note of location (latitude and longitude would be great!), and mail to
Dr Allan Strand
Grice Marine Laboratory
College of Charleston
205 Ft. Johnson Rd
Charleston, SC 29412
USA
There is no need to do all tasks: anything you can do will help us. We are unable to cover travel costs – sorry!
It would be good – though not essential - if you could also press a specimen and submit it to your nearest herbarium.
Results Later this year, we will let you know the results of the survey (unfortunately, results from the genetic studies will take some time).
Background The story is that the American east coast species (edentula) arrived in the 1880s and spread from southern California to Alaska. The European species (maritima) arrived in the 1930s, spread to Mexico and recently reached Alaska: in doing so, it replaced the American species completely in southern California. We have been able to piece this together using records in herbaria. If you would like to see when the species were first and last reported in your county, click on the History tab on the menu (we are still trying to confirm some of these dates). Since 1970 there have been few edentula reported south of Tillamook County, Oregon, but we think that this may be because maritima just out-numbers edentula now (and no one is interested in beach weeds). Where is the current southern limit of edentula? Will maritima continue to replace edentula northwards? We need field observations. And to learn more about the story, we would to see what their genes tell us. But the coastline is vast and we need your help.
How do I spot them? They are typically, though not always, found on sandy beaches – often the first species encountered as you walk from the sea up the shore. They are annuals, have fleshy leaves and pink, purple or white “cabbage” family (crucifer) flowers. For a guide to tell the species apart, go to the Species ID tab. When you see them side-by-side it is easy to spot the difference (but if you only have one, you might spend ages trying to tell which you have!). If in doubt, just send us a photo.
How can I help?
1) Current status. For any beach, (a) see which species you think is/are present, (b) estimate the proportions of the two species, and (c) take photos that show the fruits and leaves. Email photos and other details to Roger Cousens [email protected]
2) Seeds. Look for fruits that have started to change color or have already turned yellow/brown (if ripe, they may just drop off in your hand). Collect a handful, moving from plant to plant, and put in a paper bag. Please keep the two species separate! Take home and air-dry. Place in a paper bag in an envelope, with a note of location (latitude and longitude would be great!), and mail to
Dr Allan Strand
Grice Marine Laboratory
College of Charleston
205 Ft. Johnson Rd
Charleston, SC 29412
USA
There is no need to do all tasks: anything you can do will help us. We are unable to cover travel costs – sorry!
It would be good – though not essential - if you could also press a specimen and submit it to your nearest herbarium.
Results Later this year, we will let you know the results of the survey (unfortunately, results from the genetic studies will take some time).