Phragmites

The invasive reed Phragmites has been steadily overtaking a marsh scientists are studying.

Phragmites grows much taller, denser and with deeper roots than the native marsh grass it overruns.

Phragmites grows much taller, denser and with deeper roots than the native marsh grass it overruns. But those same traits that make it a powerful invader also mean it stores more carbon than native species.

"Phragmites has been referred to as a Jekyll and Hyde species," she said.

Phragmites plants growing on Staten Island draft in a breeze in the Oakwood Beach neighborhood of Staten Island.