ibclogo XVI International Botanical Congess


Abstract Number: 2553
Session = 16.16.1


HITCH-HIKERS AND INVITED GUESTS: THE CHANGING WEED FLORA IN AND NEAR NORTHERN AUSTRALIA


B.M. Waterhouse. AQIS, PO Box 1054, Mareeba, Australia


Early detection of new weeds can facilitate timely intervention to minimise their impacts. Investigation of probable source and entry routes, as well as knowledge of the weed's biology and ecology, are important in delineating the extent of a new invader. Surveys have detected several important new weeds in Queensland, Irian Jaya and Papua New Guinea (PNG). Chromolaena odorata, Mikania micrantha and Praxelis clematidea are among recent finds in Queensland. Eradication of C. odorata and M. micrantha is in progress. Circumstantial evidence suggests C. odorata and P. clematidea arrived as contaminants of pasture seed. Arrival of Limnocharis flava and Cleome rutidosperma in Irian Jaya has coincided with mass transmigration of settlers from Java. Eastwards spread into PNG is likely. Escape of cultivated species is also a major source of new weeds in the region.


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