Sporobolus Indicus Research Articles

Effectiveness of integrating mowing and systemic herbicides applied with a weed wiper for Sporobolus indicus var. pyramidalis management in Florida

Abstract Giant smutgrass [Sporobolus indicus (L.) R. Br. var. pyramidalis (P. Beauv.) Veldkamp] is an invasive species in grasslands, and herbicide application has been the most efficient management method to suppress this weed. Experiments were conducted in 2017 and 2018 to determine the effects of wiping glyphosate and hexazinone on S. indicus var. pyramidalis. A dose–response experiment using a handheld weed wiper was established with 20 treatments comprising two herbicides (glyphosate and hexazinone), uni- and bidirectional wiping methods, and 5 herbicide concentrations (6.25% v/v, 12.5% v/v, 25.0% v/v, 50.0% v/v, and 100% v/v basis). Data were collected 30 and 60 d after treatment (DAT). An ATV-mounted roto-type weed-wiper experiment was established in a strip-plot arrangement, with mowing as the horizontal strip, the wiping method (unidirectional vs. bidirectional) randomized as the vertical strip with three dosages of each herbicide for a total of 12 wiping treatments. Data were collected at 35 and 90 DAT. The percent plant mortality was calculated using differences in pre- and posttreatment plant counts. ANOVA and log-logistic linear regression were used to analyze the data. The dose–response experiment showed that S. indicus var. pyramidalis mortality increased with herbicide concentration, and mortality was greater with the bidirectional wiping method compared with the unidirectional method. Treatments wiped bidirectionally with glyphosate at 70% v/v, hexazinone at 30% v/v, and hexazinone at 60% v/v resulted in S. indicus var. pyramidalis mortality ranging from 75% to 98% by 90 DAT across all locations. The ATV-mounted weed-wiper experiment showed that mowing before herbicide application with weed wipers decreased the efficacy of both herbicides. Overall, both experiments indicate that S. indicus var. pyramidalis should be wiped bidirectionally using either glyphosate (70% v/v) or hexazinone (at least 30% v/v) to obtain satisfactory control. Further work should be conducted to determine whether seasonality impacts the response of S. indicus var. pyramidalis to mowing and the application of these herbicides.

Exploring Phosphate Solubilizing Bacterial Communities in Rhizospheres of Native and Exotic Forage Grasses in Alkaline-Sodic Soils of the Flooding Pampa.

The flooding pampa is one of the most important cattle-raising regions in Argentina. In this region, natural pastures are dominated by low-productivity native grass species, which are the main feed for livestock. In this context, previous studies in the region with the subtropical exotic grass Panicum coloratum highlight it as a promising species to improve pasture productivity. Cultivable phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) communities associated to native (Sporobolus indicus) and exotic (Panicum coloratum) forage grasses adapted to alkaline-sodic soils of the flooding pampa were analyzed. PSB represented 2-14% of cultivable rhizobacteria and Box-PCR fingerprinting revealed a high genetic diversity in both rhizospheres. Taxonomic identification by MALDI-TOF showed that PSB populations of P. coloratum and S. indicus rhizospheres are dominated by the phylum Proteobacteria (92,51% and 96,60% respectively) and to a lesser extent (< 10%), by the phyla Actinobacteria and Firmicutes. At the genus level, both PSB populations were dominated by Enterobacter and Pseudomonas. Siderophore production, nitrogen fixation, and indoleacetic acid production were detected in a variety of PSB genera of both plant species. A higher proportion of siderophore and IAA producers were associated to P. coloratum than S. indicus, probably reflecting a greater dependence of the exotic species on rhizospheric microorganisms to satisfy its nutritional requirements in the soils of the flooding pampa. This work provides a novel knowledge about functional groups of bacteria associated to plants given that there are no previous reports dedicated to the characterization of PSB rhizosphere communities of S indicus and P coloratum. Finally, it should be noted that the collection obtained in this study can be useful for the development of bioinputs that allow reducing the use of chemical fertilizers, providing sustainability to pasture production systems for livestock.

Survey of Weed Infestation of Three Levels of Pasture Degradation in the Municipality of Cahoeiras de Macacu, State of Rio de Janeiro

Objective: The objective of this work was to register weed species in pasture areas at different levels of degradation, as a subsidy for weed control and the recovery of degraded pastures. Theoretical framework: Well-managed pastures provide socio-environmental benefits, being important carbon sinks and providing food for livestock. Studies related to the registration of weed species in pastures are an important tool towards the recovery and renewal of degraded pasture areas. Method: A survey of weed species was carried out in pasture areas in the municipality of Cachoeiras de Macacu, State of Rio de Janeiro, using the inventory square method, in order to indicate the ideal moment to apply control practices due to the main registered weed species. Results and conclusions: Twenty-three weed species were registered and distributed in 11 botanical families. The families that most stood out in number of species were: Fabaceae, Poaceae and Asteraceae. The weeds with the highest degree of importance were in descending order: Paspalum notatum, Eupatorium maximilianii, Imperata brasiliensis, Desmodium incanum and Sporobolus indicus. The values obtained for number of weeds, density and abundance increased as degradation levels evolved. The weed density referring to the lowest level of degradation can be used as a parameter in decision-making about the most appropriate moment to carry out the control of weed species. Average density value equal to 6.0 plants m-2 indicates the appropriate moment for adopting weed control practices, based on the main registered species. The similarity indices among sampling areas were high, evidencing the homogeneity of species among the different levels of degradation. Research implications: The results obtained can be used as benchmarks in relation to the ideal time when farmers or ranchers should apply effective practices of weed control, based on the main species found in pastures. Consequently, minimizing or even avoiding the progressive degradation of pastures. Originality/value: In general, the control of weeds in pasture areas in Brazil is neglected or carried out without the use of technical-scientific criteria. Phytosociological surveys of weed infestation can be used as guides for decision-making on the ideal moment for the application of control methods based on the main incident species, and may also be used in the development and formulation of public policies.

New findings and confirmation of the presence of two alien grass species in Croatia

This paper provides new data concerning the presence of two alien grass species in Croatia based on a revision of herbarium material from ZA, ZAHO and ZAGR, literature data and on field observations. Two poorly documented alien grass species Cenchrus longisetus M. C. Johnst. and Sporobolus indicus (L.) R. Br., are confirmed for the country. Brief information on the species distribution in Croatia and a discussion of the alien and invasive status in the country is provided. Judging from the literature and field observations both species should be considered as naturalized, non-invasive species in Croatia. The text is illustrated with photographs from the new localities of both species. These new confirmed records allow us to better define the European and national distribution of the targeted species and offer new insights into the alien flora of Croatia.

Plant Diversity of the Poaceae Tribe on Teletubbies Hill, Bumiaji Village, Batu City, East Java

Poaceae is an organism that can live and develop, generally found in tropical areas or areas with air temperature with sufficient rainfall to form grasslands. Poaceae have an important role as a barrier to erosion at the foot of the cliff. This study aims to determine the diversity of plants in the Poaceae family. The research was conducted by descriptive observation with observation techniques. The specimen collection method was roaming which was carried out in the Teletubbies Hill area, Bumiaji Village, Batu City, East Java. In collecting specimens, abiotic data were also collected as environmental parameters in the form of rainfall, number of rainy months, average daily temperature, and height above sea level to support the identification process. Based on the observation results, 6 species of the Poaceae family were found. The species found were Sporobolus indicus, Imperata cylindrical, Digitaria ciliaris, Lepetochloa, Bothriochloa ischaemum and Eragrostis unioloides.

The accelerated spread of a neophyte introduced to Europe long ago

The first occurrence of Sporobolus indicus in Hungary is reported. The neotropical S. indicus is one of the oldest introduced neophytes to Europe. From the middle of the 19th century until the last decade of the 20th century, apart from a few occasional occurrences, it expanded only in the Mediterranean area. However, the number of observations has dramatically increased in the past two decades, even outside the Mediterranean region. Its recent rapid spreading is evident along roads, in lawns, trampled tourist places (e.g., campsites). Tourism certainly contributes to the very successful recent spreading of the species. Still, global warming, the increasingly mild winters in continental Europe, can certainly enhance the establishment and further dispersal of this cold sensitive species.

Desempeño y habilidad competitiva de la gramínea invasora Eragrostis plana en condiciones de estrés hídrico

Eragrostis plana (capín Annoni) is an important invasive grass of the Río de la Plata grasslands, frequently associated with sites under high degree of abiotic stress (e.g., water stress). We performed two complementary experiments, in which we evaluated the relative effect of water stress on the performance and competitive ability of E. plana and two native grasses: Eragrostis bahiensis and Sporobolus indicus. In the first experiment, the performance of the species was studied in two treatments (n=5), with and without water stress. In the second, we evaluated the competitive ability by manipulating plant-plant interactions under water stress (n=5). Both experiments were carried out simultaneously in a greenhouse under controlled conditions. Different individual performance variables related to plant growth and resource acquisition/utilization strategies were measured (e.g., height, number of green and dry leaves, number of tillers, biomass). In the first experiment, the performance of each species with and without water stress was compared; while in the second, relative interaction intensity indices were calculated. Eragrostis plana was the most affected species by water stress, with lower leaf production, higher rate of leaf senescence and lower rate of height growth. In the competitive ability experiment, E. plana had a greater inhibitory effect on the growth of native plants, and its response was generally positive or neutral when interacting with them. We conclude that although water stress had a greater effect on E. plana than native grasses, the competitive ability of the invader is superior even under these conditions.

Smutgrass (Sporobolus indicus) control in bahiagrass is improved with applications of herbicide and fertilizer

AbstractSmutgrass is an invasive weed species that can quickly outcompete bahiagrass because of its aggressive growth, prolific seed production, and rhizomatous nature. Total renovation of bahiagrass pastures or hayfields is generally not a feasible or economically viable option for most producers. Therefore, controlling the continual spread of smutgrass will require an integrated weed management (IWM) plan that incorporates multiple strategies. The objective of this study was to test the interactions of herbicides and fertilizers on smutgrass control in bahiagrass and determine the most efficacious and economical IWM plan for low-input bahiagrass systems. This research was conducted on a mixture of ‘Tifton 9’ and ‘Pensacola’ bahiagrass at the Alapaha Beef Station in Alapaha, GA. The study design was a randomized complete block with a three-by-four factorial treatment arrangement with six replications. Fertility treatments included 56 kg N ha–1 (ammonium nitrate, 34% N) + 56 kg K2O ha–1, 56 kg N ha–1, and an unfertilized control. Smutgrass was reduced to &lt;15% ground coverage when a postemergent herbicide was applied. The addition of a preemergent herbicide and/or fertilizer further reduced the coverage of smutgrass (P &lt; 0.01). As smutgrass declined, the bahiagrass ground coverage increased; other vegetation and dead material did not differ by treatment. Generally, herbage accumulation and crude protein were only affected following the second N application (P &lt; 0.01). Treatments that included preemergent (indaziflam) and postemergent (hexazinone) herbicides in addition to N and K2O resulted in an improved bahiagrass stand as timely weed suppression removed competition, while fertilizer provided essential nutrients for optimum growth to fill in the gaps. Combining herbicide and fertilizer is a more economical option for producers when compared to a complete bahiagrass renovation.

The diversity of microfungi associated with grasses in the Sporobolus indicus complex in Queensland, Australia.

There are five closely related Sporobolus species, collectively known as weedy Sporobolus grasses (WSG) or the rat's tail grasses. They are fast growing, highly competitive, unpalatable weeds of pastures, roadsides and woodlands. An effective biological control agent would be a welcomed alternative to successive herbicide application and manual removal methods. This study describes the initial exploratory phase of isolating and identifying native Australian microfungi associated with WSG, prior to evaluating their efficacy as inundative biological control agents. Accurate species-level identification of plant-pathogenic microfungi associated with WSG is an essential first step in the evaluation and prioritisation of pathogenicity bioassays. Starting with more than 79 unique fungal morphotypes isolated from diseased Sporobolus grasses in Queensland, Australia, we employed multi-locus phylogenetic analyses to classify these isolates into 54 fungal taxa. These taxa belong to 22 Ascomycete families (12 orders), of which the majority fall within the Pleosporales (>24 taxa in 7 families). In the next phase of the study, the putative species identities of these taxa will allow us to prioritise those which are likely to be pathogenic based on existing literature and their known ecological roles. This study represents the first step in a systematic, high-throughput approach to finding potential plant pathogenic biological control agents.

Sporobolus indicus (smut grass)

This datasheet on Sporobolus indicus covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis, Biology &amp; Ecology, Environmental Requirements, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Uses, Further Information.

First Report of ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma brasiliense’ in North America and in a New Host, Globe Sedge (Cyperus globulosus)

A survey of weeds was undertaken in a palm nursery affected by lethal bronzing (LB) to identify a reservoir host of the causal phytoplasma. Three common species were identified; Urochloa maxima (Guineagrass), Sporobolus indicus (smut grass), and Cyperus esculentus (yellow nutsedge) and sampled over a period of 2 years. Each species was sampled 36 times and all three species were negative for the LB phytoplasma. However, three specimens of C. esculentus tested positive for the phytoplasma species ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma brasiliense’. These findings represent the first documented case of ‘Ca. P. brasiliense’ in North America, specifically in Florida, U.S.A., as well as a new host record for the phytoplasma and the first monocot host documented. Because of the impact this phytoplasma has on papaya and hibiscus in South America, it presents a unique threat to ornamental and agricultural sectors in south Florida. An area-wide survey for the phytoplasma and potential vectors is recommended.

Green leaves and seeds alcoholic extract controls Sporobulus indicus germination in laboratory conditions

High seed production makes Sporobolus indicus var. pyramidalis a difficult to control invasive grassland plant. The objective of the present study was to investigate the bioactivity of Cyperus rotundus, Phyllanthus tenellus and Ricinus communis green leaf extracts and of Carica papaya seeds on S. indicus germination without breaking dormancy, simulating the field conditions. The ethanolic extract bioactivity of C. rotundus, P. tenellus, R. communis green leaves and C. papaya seeds, at concentrations of 25, 50 and 75% in S. indicus germination was evaluated. Carotenoids, flavonoids, soluble phenolic compounds and total tannins were quantified in the extracts. The chemical component concentrations varied between alcoholic extracts. The P. tenellus extracts at all dilutions and those of R. communis and C. papaya at 75% completely suppressed S. indicus seed germination at five and ten days which can be attributed to their high tannin concentration, total phenolic compounds and flavonoids.

PSIV-10 Preference evaluation of plant functional types grasses in calves

Abstract The functional types of plants (PFT) ecological approach could be used to link the preferences of ruminants. In order to investigate if ruminant preferences were associated with this approach, three PFT groups were evaluated. A group “B”, represented by Paspalum urvillei (PU-B), “C” by Nassella neesiana (NN-C) and Sporobolus indicus (SI-C) and “D” by Andropogon lateralis (AL-D). In a randomized block design with repeated measures over time, two independent cafeteria trials (autumn-winter, A-W, and spring-summer, S-S) were carried out in calves (n = 8 for A-W; n = 4 for S-S; BW=240–270 kg) arranged in four pens. In three sessions of ten minutes each, calves received 120–160 gDM of fresh cut leaves from the different species. Dry matter intake (DMI), nitrogen intake (NI) and neutral detergent fiber intake (NDFI) were measured. Data were analyzed with a mixed model that included specie and session as fixed effects and blocks as a random. The statistical analyses were performed with SAS (University Edition), data is expressed as lsmeans and was considered to differ when Tukey test presented P &amp;lt; 0.05. No significant differences were observed between sessions. The DMI and NI were higher in NN-C and lower in AL-D (P &amp;lt; 0.01) during A-W. However, in S-S, higher DMI and NI were observed in AL-D and SI-C while NN-C presented the lower DMI and NI (P &amp;lt; 0.01). The FDNI did not show differences in A-W meanwhile in S-S was positively associated with DMI (Table1). Interestingly, when the season changed, it was observed a change in PFT preference, in A-W calves preferred NN-C whereas in S-S preferred AL-D. However, attributes associated with preferences were maintained in both stations, for instance, higher DMI was associated with higher NI. Additional research is required on the interactions between PFT approach and the preference of animals for different species.

Comparing seeds germination of some local plant species on two hydroseeding mulches for post mining revegetation

The aims of this study were to determine seed germination rate of some local plant species in two hydroseeding mulches containing different tackifier concentration, as well as to determine the optimal hydroseeding mulch media composition for germinating seeds. This study used seeds of 13 local plant species: two species of Cyperaceae ( Cyperus brevifolius , C. javanicus ), five species of Leguminosae ( Cajanus cajan, Crotalaria pallida, Sesbania grandiflora, S. sesban, Tephrosia purpurea ), and six species of Poaceae ( Eleusine indica, Paspalum conjugatum, Sorghum timorense , S. bicolor , Sporobolus indicus, Themeda arundinaceae ) . Two hydroseeding mulch media with different tackifier composition were mixed with seeds of each species and then sowed in pots. Each treatment was repeated three times. Moistened cotton wool was used as control and comparative media for observing seed viability. Seed germination in mulch media was observed during 13 days. The results showed that only 8 of 13 species could be germinated: S. indicus, S. timorense , T. arundinaceae, C. cajan, C. pallida, S. grandiflora, S. sesban, and T. purpurea. The highest germination rate was shown by S. sesban (67%) in M 2 medium and the lowest one was shown by T. arundinaceae (2%) in both media. The fastest germination time was recorded for C. pallida and S. sesban seeds that germinated in 2 days after sowing (DAS) in both media, while S. timorense and T. arundinaceae seeds showed the lowest ones in 11 DAS. The fluid M 1 medium was optimal for seeds germination of S. sesban (50%) and S. grandiflora (35%), while the thicker M 2 medium was optimal for seeds germination of S. sesban (67%) and S. timorense (50%) in 13 DAS. The maximum germination rate was generally reached in 11 DAS.

Morphometric Variations in Caryopses and Seedlings of Two Grass Species Growing Under Contrasting Habitats

Urochondra setulosa grows in marine conditions, while Sporobolus indicus grows near fresh water and sometimes also close to moist places along roadside areas. Both species belong to the same tribe and same family. The two grass species growing under different habitats showed characteristic variations in their morphometric traits of the caryopsis and seedlings. U. setulosa growing in salty area had characteristic features, e.g. leaf and culm with salt deposition, rigid leaf blade with pointed leaf tip, while S. indicus growing near fresh water showed glabrous nodes and internodes. Morphometric analysis of caryopses of both species showed very similar features, without prominent differences in their length, breadth and thickness. But light microscopy and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) studies showed variations. Under light microscopy, features like colour, shape and compression of caryopses showed differences among the species. SEM studies of caryopses revealed a reticulate type of pattern of sculpturing on both dorsal and ventral surfaces, whereas anticlinal and periclinal walls in U. setulosa were elevated with folded walls, while in S. indicus had non elevated undulating walls. In conclusion, each individual grass ecotype evolves some characteristic morphological features to thrive well under a particular environment. Both species studied hereby, grown in different habitats, showed remarkable differentiations in their characters, thus indicating that habitats play a major role in traits of the plant growth.

Testing the Assumption of Constant Relative Yield Total in Replacement Series Experiments

The Relative Crowding Coefficient (RCC) is a common measure of interspecific competition in a replacement series experiment. However, the interpretation of RCC depends upon the validity of an assumed functional relationship in total species yield. We develop inference procedures based upon the Relative Yield Total (RY T), a function of species yields in mixture and monoculture plantings, that may be utilized to assess the plausibility of the species yield functional form under which RCC is a reasonable metric of interspecific competition. The performance of the proposed RYT inference procedures is evaluated on the basis of a simulation study. Using the proposed methodology, we conduct RYT inference in a replacement series experiment of bahiagrass ( Paspalum notatum ) and smutgrass (Sporobolus indicus). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljastats.v5i4.7783

Use of Rotational Stocking in Combination With Cultural Practices for Smutgrass Control—A Florida Case Study

• Smutgrass ( Sporobolus indicus ) is an invasive plant in Florida sandy soils, prevalent in central and south Florida where temperatures seldom drop below freezing and hard frost events are infrequent. • Smutgrass becomes nonpalatable to cattle as it matures and cattle avoid grazing it after the emergence of seed stalks and when leaves become tough. However, young smutgrass growth is palatable to cattle. • High stocking densities in combination with severe defoliation have proven deleterious for this grass. This study evaluated the use of increased stock density and rotational grazing management for 3 years following a one-time defoliation by mowing or burning smutgrass infested pastures.

Sporobolus indicus (L.) R. Br. (Gramineae), a new adventive species in the flora of Serbia

During field studies of semi-saline meadows and marshes carried out along the Ponjavica River in the vicinity of Banatski Brestovac (Vojvodina, Serbia), we found several specimens of Sporobolus indicus (L.) R. Br. The plant grows in transitional zones between disturbed damp mesotrophic grassland vegetation and semiaquatic communities belonging to the alliance Bolboschoenion maritimi continentale Soó. This adventive and potentially invasive species with a worldwide distribution has never before been recorded in Serbia.

Effects of Environmental Factors on Seed Germination and Emergence of Smutgrass (Sporobolus indicus) Varieties

Smutgrass is an invasive warm-season perennial bunch-type grass native to tropical Asia. The two varieties of smutgrass prevalent in Florida are small smutgrass and giant smutgrass. Laboratory seed germination experiments were conducted on both smutgrass varieties to determine the effect of various environmental factors on germination and emergence. The average germination rate for both varieties was 88% at 30/20 C day/night temperatures. Seed germination for both varieties was greater under simulated temperature flux than at constant temperatures. Seed of both varieties germinated at four simulated Florida temperature fluxes (22/11, 27/15, 33/24, and 29/19 C day/night), although the germination of small smutgrass and giant smutgrass was reduced at 33/24 and 22/11 C, respectively. Germination of small and giant smutgrass under dark conditions was 27 and 53%, respectively. Both smutgrass varieties germinated over a wide range of pH values. Small and giant smutgrass germination was inhibited at water potentials below −0.2 MPa and when small smutgrass seed was placed below the soil surface. Emergence of giant smutgrass seed did not occur below 3 cm. Both smutgrass varieties germinated over a broad range of environmental conditions, indicating their capability of year-round germination; however, germination is only likely to occur under field conditions during the summer growing season when rainfall is prevalent. These results indicate that both species have the ability to germinate over a wide range of environmental conditions but that germination is inhibited by moisture stress and depth of burial. Considering that giant smutgrass prefers higher temperatures than small smutgrass, the advent of rainfall from June through September is conducive for germination. Practices that focus on the germination pattern of smutgrass could lead to better long-term management of smutgrass in Florida.

Nutritional value of forage species from the Central Highlands Region of Mexico at different stages of maturity

This paper has two objectives, the first is to determine the chemical composition, gas production parameters and the gas release kinetics, at different stages of maturity, of three grasses and a legume commonly found in long established pastures in Mexico central highland plateau. The second is to combine the gas release kinetics analysis and the GP fitted to a mathematical model in order to improve the biological understanding of the fermentation kinetics obtained from the GP technique. Representative samples of Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyu grass), Sporobolus indicus (mouse tail), Eleocharis dombeyana (reed), Trifolium amabile (Aztec clover) plus a composite sample were collected in the growing season (July, September and November 2003) and analysed using an in vitro gas production (GP) technique. The accumulated GP was fitted to the model described in PALMER et al. (2005). Significant differences (P&lt;0.001) were observed among species and periods for chemical composition, organic matter and neutral detergent fibre digestibility. Significant differences (P&lt;0.05) were observed regarding fermentation parameters and gas release kinetic, with T. amabile and P. clandestinum being the species with the highest fermentability, whereas S. indicus and E. dombeyana were poorly fermented. P. clandestinum and T. amabile showed higher nutritive value than S. indicus and E. dombeyana. Composite samples were influenced by the chemical and fermentation characteristics of all species. It was concluded that the use of gas release kinetics analysis was useful for differentiating the fermentation kinetic of the soluble and insoluble fraction in the grasses and legume. Therefore by performing both approaches, the gas release kinetics analysis and the GP fitted to a mathematical model, gave a better description of the fermentation kinetic of grasses and the legume was achieved when only one approach had been used.