Figure 4. Panicle shattering habit and awn length variations observed in Microlaena stipoides.

A. wild-type shattering habit with individual grains dehiscing as they reach maturity, and lodging seed heads B. Typical wild-type seed head showing empty panicle (↓) by the time the lower seeds have reached maturity C. Non-shattering panicle with all seeds retained at maturity (→) D. Short versus long awned grains. Short awned varieties are highly desirable as they minimise difficulties associated with handling, processing and mechanisation of the production system.