Information resources for Buffel Grass Cenchrus ciliaris also known as Pennisetum ciliare
Links to online information resources about identification, issues and management
What and Where | Impact | Links
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An excellent fodder if well managed, but its displacement of native grass is a major concern |
A native of southern Asia and east Africa, Buffel Grass (Cenchrus cillaris) was introduced to Australia as an improved pasture. Buffel Grass is considered to be an excellent fodder species and is widely used as a pasture plant.
Generally, well-managed pastures do not cause toxicity problems for sheep and cattle, though lush plants may cause oxalate poisoning if grazed by hungry sheep. Horses may be affected by a condition known as 'bighead', caused by an induced calcium deficiency.
Impact on environment
However, the fact that Buffel Grass displaced native grass is a major concern, particularly in the arid inland of Australia. It forms dense swards in moist habitats such as along river banks or in alluvial pans. It also alters fire regimes.
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Article
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by Kelly Menadue A native of southern Asia and east Africa, Buffel Grass (Cenchrus cillaris) was introduced to Australia as an improved pasture...Outlines the potential impact of the spread of Buffel Grass in the Northern Territory, also contains links for further information about identification, control and management of the species.
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Butler D.W. and Fairfax R.J. (2003) Buffel grass and fire in a Gidgee and Brigalow woodland: A case study from central Queensland Ecological...This article examines the positive feedback relationship between Buffel grass and fire and the threat this constitutes to native vegetation in the Gidgee and Brigalow woodlands.
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Fire responses of Cenchrus ciliaris from Tropical Savannas Fire Response Database by Mark Gardener and Matthew Marrinan Species: Cenchrus...Summary of known fire responses from across Australia
Reference
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Invasion of native vegetation by Buffel Grass on Hillgrove Station in the Einasleigh Uplands was associated with a decline in species richness of the ground layer. Neither early dry season fire nor late dry season fire were found to control Buffel Grass.
Link
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This Weed Risk Assessment for <i>Cenchrus ciliaris</i> uses the Australian Weed Risk Assessment Scheme to assess the likelihood of introduced plants becoming a pest.
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This profile of Buffel Grass <i>Cenchrus ciliaris</i>, also known as <i>Pennisetum ciliare</i>on FAO's Ecoport Web Site, provides information on the appearance, distribution, ecology, status and use of the species. Links are provided to maps, illustrations and other resources. Information is incomplete for many species, but is being continually upgraded.
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Tropical Grassland Society of Australia description of the pasture plant Buffel grass Cenchrus ciliaris, written by L.R. Humphries and I.J. Partridge, describing the characteristics of the plant and its suitability for tropical and subtropical pastures in Australia
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This identification guide, on the Weeds Australia Web Site, includes photos, a description of the plant, notes on its distinguishing features and its dispersal ability, and a map of its current and potential distribution
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PIER Profile for Buffel Grass <i>Cenchrus ciliaris</i>. If available, includes Species description; Habitat/ecology; Propagation; Distribution; Information sources; Illustrations; Weed Risk Assessment
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ABC Country Hour report by Emma Haskin on CSIRO's Marg Friedel's research showing five percent of buffel reproduces sexually, explaining its ability to adapt to new environmental conditions. Wednesday, 04/02/2009
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PlantNet profile for Buffel Grass <i>Cenchrus ciliaris</i>, with illustrations, description, and distribution of the species in New South Wales, and the status of the species in other States and Territories
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Emma Haskin interviews Chris Brock, Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife, who has been mapping the weed at Kings Canyon to help conservation planning. ABC Country Hour Wednesday, 22/10/2008.
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.This factsheet, on the Desert Knowledge CRC web site, describes a project studying the dispersal and impacts of Buffel Grass in central Australia, in order to develop sustainable management
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WA conservation status, distribution, map and, where available, botanical description and illustration
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Article from "The Age" Newspaper
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Plain English guide
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Plain English guide
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Plain English guide
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Friedel, M., Puckey, H., O'Malley, C., Waycott, M., Smyth, A. and Miller, G. 2006. Buffel grass: both friend and foe. An evaluation of the advantages...Report from the CRC for Desert Knowledge on the value of buffel grass for production and the negative impacts of buffel grass on the environment.