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Achnatherum splendens: A Detailed Look

Achnatherum splendens, commonly known as Jiji Grass, is a perennial grass species within the genus Achnatherum.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Achnatherum splendens (Trin.) Nevski
• Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
• Synonyms:
  • Stipa splendens Trinius
• Note: Many species of Achnatherum were previously classified under the genus Stipa.

Distribution and Habitat

• Achnatherum splendens is distributed in Europe and the northwestern part of China.
• It thrives in dry mountain areas, forming tussocks.
• This species is often found in warm steppe vegetation.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a perennial grass growing up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) tall, though it can reach 2.5 meters in some instances.
• It forms thick and compact clumps with a diameter of 0.3 to 1.0 meter.
• The stems are tough and erect, ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 meters in height.
• It produces loose, rose-violet flower panicles that become silvery as they mature.

Ecological Role

• Achnatherum splendens plays a vital role in environmental protection, especially in warm steppe ecosystems.
• It occupies the transition zone between semi-desert vegetation and grazing pastures.
• It is an important component of vegetation communities along the Qinghai-Tibet railway.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Metroma achnatheri (a species of Delphacidae) has been observed feeding on Achnatherum splendens.
• It exhibits inter-specific relationships with other dominant species like Sophora alopecuroides (a forb).

Quirky Facts

• The species name "splendens" refers to the plant's striking or showy appearance. The flower panicles change color, starting as rose-violet and becoming silvery as they mature.

Further Resources

• USDA-NRCS National Plant Data Center
• Tropicos database
• Euro+Med Plantbase
• GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)