Fans of Westerns are no strangers to the iconic sight of a solitary tumbleweed gracefully drifting across a barren landscape. However, Californians were recently thrust into a real-life version of this scene, but with a twist. Instead of a single tumbleweed, massive swarms of these prickly plants were propelled by strong winds, causing chaos as they careened through roadways and invaded towns. The sudden influx of tumbleweeds left residents with no choice but to seek refuge indoors, away from the unruly invasion.
Tumbleweeds, although commonly associated with the American West, are not native to the region. In fact, they are an invasive plant species classified as a noxious weed. The scientific name for tumbleweed is Salsola tragus, also known as Kali tragus or prickly Russian thistle. It was introduced to the United States in the late 19th century and rapidly spread, making it the fastest plant invasion in the country’s history.
The North American Invasive Species Management Association explains that global warming can intensify the growth and success of invasive species, leading to a feedback loop that contributes to climate change. When carbon dioxide levels increase, plants tend to grow faster and larger. Invasive plants have been found to better utilize the elevated CO2 levels compared to native plants, giving them a competitive advantage. Additionally, warmer temperatures and drought conditions can cause trees to become stressed, making them more susceptible to pests. As urban areas and natural habitats experience hotter and drier conditions, insects that thrive on stressed trees may become more prevalent.
Tumbleweeds may capture a significant amount of carbon in a short time, but their effectiveness in carbon sequestration is limited due to their short lifespan (typically one year) and brittle, flammable nature. In order for them to effectively capture carbon, the plants must be buried when they die. However, tumbleweeds do serve as a crucial food source for various animals that inhabit arid environments.
Tumbleweeds, as seen in the video, have the potential to pose a significant threat to drivers. These rolling masses of dried plants can be blown in front of cars, leading to accidents. Moreover, their danger is exacerbated by the escalating frequency and intensity of wildfires. Due to their flammability and ability to be carried by the wind, tumbleweeds can spread fires that would otherwise be confined.
One person described them as “essentially barbed wire balls.”
Another user chimed in, describing the barbed wire balls as “highly flammable.”