Full Project Title: Growth inhibition and mortality induction in cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica) via the development of a novel endogenous biocide

Project Identification Number: ERR27

Cogongrass is a federally regulated noxious weed accidentally introduced to the U.S. via global trade. The invasive species has become established across the South and causes severe fire hazards. 

Herbicides such as glyphosate are currently the only method for controlling cogongrass. Even small infestations are hard to control with other methods. Repeated herbicide treatments can increase the risk of herbicide-tolerance and reduced effectiveness of control and mitigation programs.

This research may lead to a new herbicide – through biochemical characterization of inherent autotoxic compounds – for cogongrass. The research team seek to access, isolate, identify, and characterize biochemical compounds that can kill cogongrass or slow its growth and explore how cogongrass genetics affects response. The team will also conduct greenhouse trials.

This research was funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Ecosystem Restoration, Provision 40804.