Formalized classification of European fen vegetation at the alliance level

Abstract

Phytosociological classification of fen vegetation (Scheuchzerio palustris-Carice- tea fuscae class) differs among European countries. Here we propose a unified vegeta- tion classification of European fens at the alliance level, provide unequivocal assignment rules for individual vegetation plots, identify diagnostic species of fen alli- ances,and maptheir distribution.