Triodia is a large genus ofhummock grass endemic to Australia. The species of this genus are known by the common namespinifex, although they are not a part of the coastal genusSpinifex.[1] Many soft-leavedTriodia species were formerly included in the genusPlectrachne.[3]Triodia is known astjanpi (grass) incentral Australia,[4][5] and have several traditional uses amongst theAboriginal Australian peoples of the region.
Amultiaccess key (SpiKey) is available as a free application for identifying theTriodia of thePilbara (28 species and one hybrid).[6]
Triodia species areperennial Australianhummock grasses that grow in arid regions. Their leaves (30–40 centimetres long) aresubulate (awl-shaped, with a tapering point). The leaf tips, which are high in silica, can break off in the skin, leading to infections.[citation needed]
Spinifex has had many traditional uses forAboriginal Australians. Several species were (and are) used extensively as materials forbasket weaving.[7] The seeds were collected and ground to makeseedcakes.Spinifex resin was an important adhesive used in spear-making. Burning spinifex produces a strong black smoke, andsmoke signals made in this way were an effective means of communication with families and groups over substantial distances.
The speciesTriodia wiseana is used for building shelters; bunched together it is used for trapping fish against creek beds. It is calledbaru in the languages of theYindjibarndi andNgarluma people; the English term ishard spinifex.[8]
Triodia nanofibres have been used to reinforce rubber and latex products. As of 2023, a Brisbane-based company has raised funds to develop medical gels from spinifex resin.[9]
^Watson, L., and Dallwitz, M.J. 1992 onwards.The grass genera of the world: descriptions, illustrations, identification, and information retrieval; including synonyms, morphology, anatomy, physiology, phytochemistry, cytology, classification, pathogens, world and local distribution, and references. Version: 28 November 2005
