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Alternanthera philoxeroides in New South Wales, Australia: Are We Closer to Control of Alligator Weed?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 January 2017

Shelley Burgin*
Affiliation:
College of Health and Science, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, South Penrith DC, Australia, 1797
Andrew Norris
Affiliation:
College of Health and Science, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, South Penrith DC, Australia, 1797
*
Corresponding author's E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract

Alligator weed is a serious weed in many countries. In Australia, it is a “weed of national significance” because of its actual and potential impact. We surveyed all local governments in New South Wales in 2001 and 2007 to determine whether the weed is being contained. We found an increased number and extent of infestations, despite more resources and a better knowledge base. Most considered that further research is needed in tactics for control of the weed. On the basis of current containment in urban gardens, we recommend that governments better mobilize the community (e.g., bush restoration consultants, Landcare groups) to deal with alligator weed infestations.

La Alternanthera philoxeroides es una maleza persistente en muchos países. En Australia es una “maleza de importancia nacional” por su impacto actual y potencial. Entrevistamos a todos los gobiernos locales en New South Wales en 2001 y 2007 para determinar si dicha maleza estaba siendo controlada. Encontramos que había un número mayor e infestaciones extensas, a pesar de que ya se cuenta con mejores conocimientos básicos. Se consideró que mayor investigación era necesaria sobre tácticas de control de esta maleza. Tomando en cuenta el contenido actual en jardines urbanos, recomendamos que los gobiernos deben de alertar a la comunidad (por ejemplo, a los consultores en restauración de jardines, a especialistas en paisaje) para enfrentarse a las infestaciones de la Alternanthera philoxeroides.

Type
Weed Management—Other Crops/Areas
Copyright
Copyright © Weed Science Society of America 

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Footnotes

Current address: Hawkesbury River County Council, P.O. Box 6021, South Windsor Distribution Centre, Australia 2753.

References

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