First record of Nassella neesiana (Trin. & Rupr.) Barkworth (Poaceae) in Croatia

Abstract

Chilean needle grass, Nassella neesiana belonging to the tribe Stipeae (Poaceae), native to South America was recorded for the first time in Croatia. It was found in ruderal vegetation on the island of Veli Brijun in the Brijuni National Park (Istria, NW Croatia). This species can cause negative impacts to native grasslands, outcompeting native grasses or can increase fire hazards in peri-urban areas. Considering the species has already naturalized in a number of European countries, and the fact that the territory of Northern Croatia has been evaluated as suitable for its eastward expansion, it is of great importance to monitor and control the spread of the species in the Adriatic and possibly promote an early eradication. Notes on the environment in which it was found and its invasive status in Croatia are discussed.