Gary N. Ervin

Plant Ecology Lab

Flowering patch of cogongrass in Stoneville, MS.

Imperata cylindrica

Imperata cylindrica (cogongrass) is a highly problematic invader of the southern US, from the Carolinas to Texas. It was introduced into Alabama and Mississippi in the early 1900s, but has spread widely in the last two decades.

Our work has involved studies to examine the basic biology and ecology of cogongrass and its spread, along with more recent work at habitat modeling and population genetics across the US range of this invasive weed.

Department of Biological Sciences

PO Box GY

114 Harned Hall, 295 Lee Blvd

Mississippi State, MS 39762

662-325-1203

gervin <at> biology . msstate . edu

Contact info

 

Related publications

Ervin, G. N. 2010. Anthropogenic dispersal corridors override large-scale natural disturbance in determining distribution of a widespread invasive grass (Imperata cylindrica). Weeds Across Borders, National conservation Training Center, Shepherdstown, WV, June 01-04, 2010.

Bryson, C. T., L. J. Krutz, G. N. Ervin, K. N. Reddy, and J. D. Byrd, Jr. 2010. Ecotype variability and edaphic characteristics for cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) populations in Mississippi. Invasive Plant Science and Management 3: 199-207.

Holly, D. C., G. N. Ervin, C. R. Jackson, S. V. Diehl, G. T. Kirker. 2009. Effect of an invasive grass on ambient rates of decomposition and microbial community structure: A search for causality. Biological Invasions 11: 1855-1868.

Holly, D. C. and G. N. Ervin. 2007. Effects of intraspecific seedling density, soil type, and light availability upon growth and biomass allocation in cogongrass, Imperata cylindrica. Weed Technology 21: 812-819.

Holly, D. C. and G. N. Ervin. 2006. Characterization and quantitative assessment of rhizome penetration by cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica (L.) Beauv.). Weed Biology and Management 6: 120-123.

 

Collaborators

Wallace - MSU Biology

Byrd - MSU Plant & Soil Sciences

Madsen - MSU GRI

Walker - MSU RCU

Bryson - USDA ARS, US