Giant Reed (Arundo donax): Streams and Water Resources

Invasive, alien plant species have altered natural physical and biological processes of streams and water resources worldwide. Giant reed (Arundo donax L.), a large bamboo-like member of the grass family (Poaceae), is one of the greatest invasive species threats to streams in arid and Mediterranean-type climate regions. A. donax has successfully invaded rivers in these regions, forming extensive monotypic stands. Infestations of A. donax are known to increase the risk of flooding, create unnatural fire hazards, compete with indigenous riparian species for scarce water resources, and reduce the value of riparian habitat for most wildlife.