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Which Cyperaceae genera grow in tropical forest understories?
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Cyperaceae
Spikes of sedge (Carex pendula).
While many sedges are associated with sunny, moist wetlands, numerous species are adapted to the understories of diverse forest types. In tropical forests and woodlands, the Cyperaceae family is represented in the understory primarily by species from the following genera:
- Cyperus1
- Hypolytrum1
- Mapania1
- Rhynchospora1
- Scleria1
These genera contribute to the ecological diversity of tropical forest environments, where they occupy shaded habitats alongside other vegetation.21