Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Torpedo Grass (Panicum repens) - High Risk

Species that are considered high risk have a well-documented history of invasiveness in at least one location globally, and a high or medium climate match to the contiguous United States.

Panicum repens, Torpedo Grass, is believed to be native to Europe and Africa, with some sources including Asia. It has been used as pasture grass, livestock fodder, and possibly for erosion control. The history of invasiveness is high. There have been many introductions resulting in established populations around the world and documented significant ecological and economic impacts. P. repens has had significant negative impact on sugar cane crops in Taiwan, has displaced 1,000s of hectares of native species in Florida marshes, and has cost the Florida economy millions in control costs. Panicum repens is listed as a prohibited or noxious weed in at least four states. The climate match with the contiguous United States is high. The largest area of high match is in the southeast, centered on existing populations. The certainty of assessment is high due to the amount and quality of information available. There is scientifically defensible information on impacts of introductions. The overall risk assessment category is high.