Researchers raise alarm as disease-carrying threat spreads throughout US region, surviving an additional 100 days

Invasive plants often disrupt local ecosystems and frustrate gardeners, but new research shows that one such species, cogongrass, is posing a more serious threat than previously understood. Native to Asia, Africa, and Southern Europe, cogongrass is now influencing the survival of disease-carrying ticks in the United States.

The study, released by the Ecological Society of America in October 2025, reveals that the presence of cogongrass allows lone star ticks, carriers of various illnesses, to survive significantly longer. Researchers discovered that in Southeastern U.S. regions where the grass is prevalent, the ticks live over 50% longer than in areas dominated by native vegetation.

Although white-tailed deer host the lone star ticks, comparisons between areas with similar deer populations showed that ticks thrived far longer in locations with cogongrass. Lead researcher Drew Hiatt explained, "Adult ticks survived over 100 days longer in invaded plant communities compared to native plant-dominated areas, due to changes in the microclimate caused by the invasion."

These findings highlight the broader dangers of environmental disruptions caused by invasive species. For example, diseases like melioidosis, native to parts of Asia, Australia, and the Americas, have reached U.S. Gulf Coast states, partly due to longer active periods for disease-carrying mosquitoes in warming climates.

Even aside from disease risks, invasive species such as the blue crab spreading to the Canary Islands demonstrate the threat to native biodiversity. Invasive plants and animals can outcompete local species for resources, destabilizing food chains and endangering vital flora and fauna.

While scientific research on cogongrass and other invasives provides guidance for management and eradication, individuals can take action locally. One approach is "rewilding" gardens by planting native grasses and flora instead of non-native species. This supports pollinators, strengthens ecosystems, and reduces the ecological impact of human activity.

Author: Zoe Harrison