Slim tridens (Tridentopsis mutica, Taxon 63: 284 (2014))

Family: Poaceae

Author: P.M.Peterson (Torr.)

Bibliography: Taxon 63: 284 (2014)

Year: 2014

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Tridentopsis

Vegetable: False

Observations: WC. & S. U.S.A. to N. Mexico

Description

Slim tridens, known scientifically as Tridentopsis mutica, is a resilient and intriguing member of the Poaceae family. This species was meticulously described in detail by the botanist P.M. Peterson in the scientific journal Taxon, volume 63, page 284, published in 2014.

Native to the wild expanses of the western central and southern United States and extending into northern Mexico, Slim tridens thrives in diverse environments ranging from arid deserts to prairie grasslands. Its adaptability to different climates and soil types is a testament to the plant’s resilience and the evolutionary success of the Poaceae family.

The physical characteristics of Tridentopsis mutica include slender, graceful stems and narrow leaves that contribute to its common name, Slim tridens. The plant’s inflorescence is typically composed of delicate, feathery panicles that sway elegantly in the breeze, making it a visually appealing species in its native habitats.

Beyond its aesthetic qualities, Slim tridens plays an essential role in its ecosystem. As a grass species, it provides ground cover that helps prevent soil erosion and offers habitat and food sources for various wildlife species. Its presence in grassland ecosystems contributes to biodiversity and supports ecological balance.

Researchers and botanists continue to study Tridentopsis mutica to understand better its ecological contributions, growth patterns, and potential uses in landscaping and restoration projects. Due to its hardiness and low maintenance requirements, Slim tridens is considered a valuable species for sustainable gardening and habitat restoration efforts in regions where it naturally occurs.

In conclusion, Slim tridens (Tridentopsis mutica) is more than just a plant; it is a vital component of its native ecosystems and a subject of ongoing botanical interest. Its aesthetic appeal, ecological importance, and adaptability make it a significant species worthy of recognition and conservation.

Common Names

En: Slim tridens, Rough tridens

Synonyms

• Tridens muticus ((Torr.) Nash)
• Sieglingia trinerviglumis (Kuntze)
• Triodia mutica ((Torr.) Scribn.)
• Tridens pilosus ((A.Heller) Hitchc.)
• Sieglingia mutica ((Torr.) Kuntze)
• Triodia elongata ((Buckley) Bush)
• Tridens muticus var. elongatus ((Buckley) Shinners)
• Tricuspis elongata ((Buckley) A.Heller)
• Triodia trinerviglumis (Benth. ex Vasey)
• Tridens elongatus ((Buckley) Nash)
• Tridens muticus f. effusus (M.C.Johnst.)
• Uralepis pilosa (Buckley)
• Tricuspis pilosa (A.Heller)
• Uralepis elongata (Buckley)
• Tricuspis mutica (Torr.)
• Sieglingia elongata ((Buckley) Nash)
• Tricuspis trinerviglumis (Munro ex A.Gray)
• Tridentopsis mutica var. elongata ((Buckley) P.M.Peterson & Romasch.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Texas (native)
• Utah (native)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Dec 11, 2015 by EOL − Belinda Lo (cc-by-nc-sa)

Flower

Taken Dec 11, 2015 by EOL − Belinda Lo (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Nov 30, 2014 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77138756-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Tridens muticus (Torr.) Nash)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5289658)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/9562915)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Graminoid

Growth