What is the common and scientific name?
The Japanese stilt grass is one of the invasive species in Virginia. Its common name the Japanese stilt grass, while its scientific name is Microstegium vimineum ( Flory, 2009) .
Where did it originate?
The plant is native to China, Japan, and India ( Flory, 2009) .
How did it get to your chosen location (speculate if you don’t know)?
The plant got to the United States as it was used in the packaging of fragile products that were being transported from Asia ( Flory, 2009) .
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What characteristic of the species makes it successful?
The most significant characteristic of this species that has made it successful is its seeds that spread quickly. Since it blooms in late summer, its many seeds and light seeds that can float on the water makes it possible to propagate it with the wildlife ( Virginia Invasive Species, 2020). Another characteristic of the species that makes it to be successful is the fact that it thrives both in manmade and natural environments, and it is tolerable with various ranges of soil conditions.
What are the affected native species (any plants, animals, etc.)?
The most affected invasive species are sedges and late-season grasses. Animal native species that are affected by the fast spread of plants include the cotton rat and other animals.
What efforts are underway to prevent the spread of the species?
One way of curbing the spread of this invasive species is by spraying it chemicals that render it withering and eventually dying out.
What is one thing you learned from this research?
I have learned that some invasive species can be threatening o the survival of other invasive species, including both plants and animals. I have also learned that some invasive species may be native in countries thousands of miles from where the species are presently found.
References
Flory, L. (2009). Nonchemical methods for managing Japanese stiltgrass (Microstegium vimineum). Invasive Plant Science and Management, 2 (4), 301-308. https://doi.org/10.1614/IPSM-09-026.1
Virginia Invasive Species. (2020). Japanese stilt grass. http://vainvasivespecies.org/species/japanese-stilt-grass/
