Giant Reed (Arundo donax). Wikimedia, Forest and Kim StarrGiant reed (Arundo donax), commonly known as Carrizo cane in Texas, is a bamboo-like plant that can grow up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall. It was intentionally introduced to California in the early 1800s from the Mediterranean for erosion control along riverbanks and for use in thatching and basket weaving. This invasive weed has gradually spread throughout the southern half of the United States, all the way to Maryland, wreaking havoc on native ecosystems along the way.
To support its rapid growth rate, giant reed consumes large amounts of water compared to native vegetation, threatening to worsen the water shortage in places like the Rio Grande Basin, where the densest stands of giant reed are found. It reduces arthropod diversity and abundance and destroys wildlife habitat. The stems and leaves of the plant contain several toxic or unpalatable chemicals that probably protect it from most native insects and other grazers.
Of course, there are many stories that start like this. Invasive species are notorious for outcompeting local flora and fauna. But giant reed isn’t just an ecological threat; it is also a major impediment to border patrol operations of the US Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection. Along the international ...
