Brackish Water Wetlands
The most widespread species in the fishing lagoons is the Wigeongrass (Ruppia marittima); also the Sea Lettuce (Ulva lactuga) is rather widespread, and it can develop to the extent that it hinders the passage of boats.
Where saltiness is not very high, the Common Reed (Phragmites australis) dominates together with tufts of Sea Rush (Juncus maritimus).
At the edges of the tidal flats, the Small Cordgrass (Spartina marittima and Spartina juncea) dominates, while where saltiness is higher, we can find the Glasswort (Arthrocnemum fruticosum, A. perenne, A. glaucum, Salicornia veneta). Besides, the Suaeda marittima and the Hairy Smotherweed (Bassia irsuta) grow. The French Tamarisk (Tamarix gallica) is one of the few shrubs able to live in this environment.
Among the protected plants, we must mention the Limonium (Limonium sp.)with its beautiful inflorescences. The Golden Samphire (Inula crithmoides) and the Sea-aster (Astro tipolium) brighten up the valleys with their colors.
Limonium serotinum
(photo by: Archivio Parco Regionale Veneto del Delta del Po)