Publication Date
2022
Publisher
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia
City
Perth
Abstract
Introducing new plants to an area may have both positive and negative effects on the environment, economy and community. To minimise the negative environmental impact of introducing new agricultural species, DPIRD conducts a risk assessment procedure based on widely accepted scientific standards. This report assesses Maize (Zea mays). Maize (corn) is a tall, annual warm season (C4) grass grown for grain or silage. The first domestication of maize was by the indigenous people of southern Mexico, and it has been cultivated for thousands of years in central and southern America. Maize is a staple food in many parts of the world, with the world production of maize surpassing that of wheat or rice. In addition to being consumed directly by humans, maize is also used for biofuels (corn ethanol), animal feed and other maize products, such as corn starch and corn syrup. Maize is a monoecious plant, as it has separate male and female flowers on the same plant. The tassel or male flower produces pollen, while the ear with silks (female flower) produces ovules that become the seed or kernels.
Number of Pages
3
Keywords
weed risk, assessment, biosecurity, Western Australia, Maize, Zea mays
Disciplines
Biosecurity | Weed Science
Recommended Citation
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia.
(2022), Zea mays - environmental weed risk assessment 2022. Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia, Perth. Report.
https://library.dpird.wa.gov.au/bs_wra/112
