Stalter, R.; Lonard, R.I., and Judd, F.W., 2024. Biological flora of sand dunes on the Atlantic coastline of North America: Ammophila breviligulata Fernald. Journal of Coastal Research, 40(3), 577–587. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208.

Ammophila breviligulata Fernald, American beachgrass, is a North American temperature zone rhizomatous species that is often the dominant species on foredunes and primary dune complexes of the mid-Atlantic United States and adjacent maritime Canadian provinces. Ammophila breviligululata is a pioneer dune-forming species that serves as an ecosystem engineer. It thrives in accreting sand environments and requires partial burial for robust growth. The taxon has low freshwater moisture requirements and tolerates high soil temperatures, moderate soil salinity, and salt spray. Caryopses production and seedling establishment are low. Asexual reproduction by rhizome proliferation and fragmentation is the primary mechanism of reproduction. The extensive rhizome/adventitious root matrix of American beachgrass is an important factor in stabilizing dunes and reducing dune erosion. This species grows rapidly, attains large size, and produces dense stands in dune complexes. Leaf endophytic fungi have been identified as enhancing belowground productivity. Pathogenic fungi and parasitic nematodes are major causes of loss of vigor and mortality. Ammophila breviligulata provides nutrition and cover for a variety of reptiles, birds, and mammals.