Arundo donax is listed as one of the 100 world's worst
invasive alien species due to its aggressive growth, environmental
tolerance and long life (over 40 years). The reed can reached
heights of 10 meters. Vegetative reproduction appears to be
principle means for population expansion through rhizome extension
or plant fragments carried downstream (root formation can occur on
plant fragments). Once established, the giant reed can form
colonies spanning several acres. Sexual reproduction may not be
important for this species as most specimens do not produce viable
seeds. Even when green, the plants are highly flammable.
A. donax has been cultivated as a source of materials for
instruments (flutes, pipes, etc.), building materials, materials
for basket weaving and fuelwood. The reed was introduced to other
areas as an ornamental plant and to stabilize soils against
erosion. Other potential applications include carbon sequestration,
source of fibre (pulp and paper, rayon) and use as an energy crop.
Medically, the reed has been used as a sudorific, a diuretic, a
diaphoretic, an emollient, a galactofuge and an anti-lactant in the
treatment of dropsy. Isolated alkaloids may also raise blood
pressure and contract the intestine. Phytocompounds may also have
anti-carcinogenic properties.
The reed contains a base chromosome number of 12. However, various
ploidy levels have been reported. Genetic diversity is expected to
be low due to the vegetative propagation of the reed. Thus far, the
chloroplast is the only genome to be completely sequenced (GenBank:
KX109945.1). De novo assembly of the transcriptome has occurred.
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