Family: Poaceae
Author: (Phil.) Barkworth
Bibliography: Taxon 39: 612 (1990)
Year: 1990
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Nassella
Vegetable: False
Observations: SC. Chile to Argentina
Description
Argentine needlegrass, known by its scientific name Nassella tenuis, belongs to the Poaceae family, which is noteworthy for comprising a vast range of grass species. This perennial grass species is predominantly found in the southern regions of South America, extending from south-central Chile to Argentina. It plays a significant role in the native ecosystems of these areas, contributing to the biodiversity and stability of grassland habitats.
The species was formally described and recognized in scientific literature in 1990 by the botanist Mary Elizabeth Barkworth, as noted in the publication “Taxon,” volume 39, page 612. Barkworth’s contribution has been pivotal in enhancing the understanding of this grass, providing a foundation for further research and conservation efforts.
Argentine needlegrass is characterized by its slender, needle-like foliage, which is well-adapted to the climatic and soil conditions of its native range. It is a resilient species, capable of thriving in various environmental conditions, from arid plains to mountainous regions. This adaptability makes it an important species for grazing, serving as a food source for livestock and wildlife alike.
The presence of Nassella tenuis across such a broad geographical area highlights its ecological importance. It plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, maintaining soil health, and providing habitat for a myriad of organisms. The grasslands where it grows are crucial for supporting both agriculture and natural ecosystems, making Argentine needlegrass a vital component of these landscapes.
Ongoing studies and conservation efforts continue to focus on Nassella tenuis, aiming to preserve its natural habitats and understand its ecological roles better. This research is essential for ensuring that the species can continue to thrive amidst changing environmental conditions and land use practices.
Common Names
En: Argentine needlegrass, White tussock, Fine-stem needlegrass, Finestem needlegrass, Mexican Feather Grass, Tussockgrass, Argentine Needle-grass
Af: Witpolgras
Nl: Fijn vedergras
De: Mexikanisches Federgras, Engelshaar
Sv: Svansfjädergräs
Synonyms
- Stipa tenuis (Phil.)
- Stipa tenuis var. argentina ((Speg.) Speg.)
- Stipa argentina (Speg.)
- Stipa puelches (Speg.)
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Argentina South (native)
- Chile Central (native)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jun 16, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 17, 2022 by Wolfgang Klesper (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken May 14, 2022 by Blue Bottle (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 1, 2022 by Joseph Dupont (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 11, 2022 by Kaffal (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Annie DUSHUD (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 14, 2020 by Charlie Grosman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 17, 2018 by Matthieu Melcot (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 11, 2018 by Darius Lysandre (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 27, 2021 by paola vadalà (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 25, 2020 by Eva Boyer (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 22, 2022 by Plantomax (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 15, 2021 by Rico Mende (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 15, 2021 by Rico Mende (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 6, 2021 by abychou (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Bertrand BUI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2013 by Tela Botanica − Bertrand BUI (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5679405)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:948430-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Nassella tenuissima (Trin.) Barkworth)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5289833)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Graminoid
