Rare Micheli’s flatsedge discovered in Železné hory

A rare plant, Micheli’s flatsedge, has been found in the Slavice Game Reserve within the Železné hory protected landscape. Botanist Lenka Šafářová from the East Bohemian Museum in Pardubice discovered it on the dried bed of a pond. The species thrives only in specific muddy habitats, such as temporarily drained ponds, and struggles in competition with other plants. Its seeds can remain viable for up to 20 years, waiting for the right conditions. Experts say the discovery highlights the ecological value of Železné hory as a refuge for species living at the edge of their natural range.