Hyparrhenia variabilis a potential invasive exotic weed at Mexico

Abstract

The genus Hyparrhenia Andersson ex E.Fourn. is native to Africa, but presents in several countries and many parts of the world. Mexico is one of the countries, where Hyparrhenia rufa (Nees) Stapf (Poaceae) is found. However, it is classified as a highly invasive exotic species; therefore, is on the list of invasive species in Mexico. In recent years, the presence of Hyparrhenia cymbaria (L.) Stapfand and Hyparrhenia variabilis Stapf (Poacear) has been reported, while H. variabilis has been observed in the state at Morelos, Michoacán, and Jalisco. H. variabilis has been particularly identified in the municipality of Tepatitlan, Jalisco, Mexico. It has been observed that it grows densely and displaces native vegetation. Some studies mention that there are biotypes that have the ability to inhibit nitrogen-fixing bacteria, so it is necessary to study its biology and its inhibition capabilities around nitrogen fixation and seek strategies to stop its spread. The objective of this research was to review the information that exists on the species H. variabilis and its control. Apparently, there is a lack of information on this specie. However, there are some studies on other species of the genus such as H. rufa, which classified as highly invasive and some management reports can be used for H. variabilis. Therefore, it is necessary to develop management for the species based on literature available on H. rufa