Paspalum lepton - a valuable adjunct to the suite of grasses used in grazing systems in the subtropics or a potential weed

Authors

  • Bruce G. Cook Formerly Principal Agronomist (Sown Pastures), Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
  • David L. Lloyd Honorary Research Fellow, School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland
  • Walter J. Scattini Formerly Principal Agronomist (Sown Pastures), Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
  • Alan D. Robertson Livestock development consultant and farmer, "Oaky Creek", Willsons Downfall

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17138/tgft(12)124-141

Abstract

Native and exotic C4 grasses currently used in grazing systems in the subtropics have specific limitations with management, decline in feed quality as they mature and variable adaptation to soils and climates, providing opportunities to identify alternative species to complement or replace them. One option is Paspalum lepton (syn. P. nicorae), a sward- forming, rhizomatous grass native to subtropical South America with recognized forage value. An early maturing form of this species has become naturalized in Northern New South Wales since its introduction in the 1940s. More recent introductions with forage and amenity potential are being established vegetatively and by seed as it becomes available. This paper reviews published work on P. lepton and reports largely unpublished results and observations on its performance in research and development studies in subtropical Eastern Australia. The potential value of and threats posed by P. lepton in relation to its adaptation, productivity, competitiveness and role in limiting ingress of existing weedy species are discussed. APG 54281 and APG 54325 are palatable, productive and persistent lines of this grass that have proven to be adapted to livestock production systems in most of the humid lowland subtropics, and to a specific niche in the subtropical uplands of Southeast Queensland where there is a lack of adapted C4 grasses and C3 grasses are only marginally adapted.

Author Biography

Bruce G. Cook, Formerly Principal Agronomist (Sown Pastures), Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

Bio Statement

   Former employer: DPIF (now DAF Qld)

   Principal Agronomist (Sown Pastures); retired 2006

   50+ years experience in research

   30+ years overseas development and consulting

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How to Cite

Cook, B. G., Lloyd, D. L., Scattini, W. J., & Robertson, A. D. (2024). Paspalum lepton - a valuable adjunct to the suite of grasses used in grazing systems in the subtropics or a potential weed. Tropical Grasslands-Forrajes Tropicales, 12(3), 124–141. https://doi.org/10.17138/tgft(12)124-141

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Published

2024-10-01

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Section

Review Article