Family: Poaceae
Origin, Description & Uses:
Paspalum atratum (atra paspalum, capim-pojuca, pasto pojuca) is a robust tropical grass native to South America, ranging from Venezuela to Paraguay. This fast-growing perennial grass is commonly cultivated as a forage and pasture species because it is palatable to livestock, tolerant of grazing, and capable of growing in a wide range of soil conditions, including wet or seasonally flooded areas. It forms large dense clumps with broad leaves and tall flowering stems, and is valued in tropical agriculture for hay production, erosion control, and improved pasture productivity.
Risks & Threats:
Although Paspalum atratum is currently not known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses several traits that are cause for concern and could detrimentally impact tropical island ecosystems. This species thrives in tropical climates, tolerates shade and disturbance, grows rapidly, and produces abundant seed that can be spread by water, animals, equipment, and human activity. It is also apomictic, allowing reproduction without fertilization, which can aid establishment and spread. Related Paspalum species have become invasive in many regions, where they form dense stands that outcompete desirable vegetation and alter pasture and natural ecosystems. Because of these characteristics, caution is warranted, and choosing a low risk or native alternative is recommended whenever suitable alternatives are available.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Naturalized in Australia and Southeast Asia
- Other Paspalum species are invasive
- Sharp edges
- Shade-tolerant
- Tolerates many soil types
- Reproduces by seeds
- Apomictic
- Reaches maturity in <1 year
- Seeds dispersed by water, intentionally by people and possibly by wind and other means
- Tolerates grazing, cutting and fire
Low Risk Traits:
- Palatable to grazing animals
- Non-toxic
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
- Herbicides provide effective control
