Editing Muskeg (section)

==Composition==
Muskeg forms because [[permafrost]], [[clay]] or [[bedrock]] prevents water drainage. The water from rain and snow collects, forming permanently waterlogged vegetation and stagnant pools. Muskeg is wet, acidic, and relatively infertile, which prevents large trees from growing, although stunted [[Pinus contorta|shore pine]], [[Populus sect. Aigeiros|cottonwood]], some species of [[willow]], and [[Picea mariana|black spruce]] are typically found in these habitats.<ref>C. Michael Hogan. 2008</ref> It needs two conditions to develop: abundant rain and cool summers. A dead plant that falls on dry soil is normally attacked by [[bacteria]] and [[fungus|fungi]] and quickly rots. If the same plant lands in water or on saturated soil, it decomposes differently. Less oxygen is available under water, so aerobic bacteria and fungi fail to colonize the submerged debris effectively. In addition, cool temperatures retard bacterial and fungal growth. This causes slow decomposition, and thus the plant debris gradually accumulates to form [[peat]] and eventually muskeg. Depending on the underlying [[topography]] of the land, muskeg can reach depths greater than 30 metres (100&nbsp;ft).