Saltwater paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) – a weed review
Abstract
Paspalum vaginatum is a saline-tolerant perennial grass which occurs in many estuaries and along coastal foreshores of the northern half of the North Island, New Zealand. The distribution and ecology of this grass, and the impacts it has on the natural values of these areas is not well documented.
This report was commissioned by the Waikato Regional Council (Environment Waikato) in light of anecdotal evidence which suggests that P. vaginatum is threatening natural estuarine values in the Waikato region (Graeme 1997, 1998a, 1998b, 1999; Kendal 2000). These impacts appear similar to those of the more well-documented cord grass (Spartina spp.).
The brief for this project was to:
• Undertake a survey of literature and expert opinion regarding Paspalum vaginatum, particularly as it relates to the New Zealand context.
• Detail the survey results and make recommendations for possible future action.
• Note any other introduced grass species that are potentially threatening the estuarine values of the Waikato region.
