Management implications of recent research into the effect of bitou bush invasion

Authors

Kristine O. French, University of WollongongFollow
Emilie-Jane Ens, University of WollongongFollow
Carl Gosper, Institute of Conservation Biology and Law
Elizabeth Lindsay, University of Wollongong
Tanya J. Mason, University of WollongongFollow
Ben Owers, NSW Department of Environment & Climate Change
Natalie A. Sullivan, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

24710

Publication Details

French, K. O., Ens, E., Gosper, C. R., Lindsay, E., Mason, T. J., Owers, B. & Sullivan, N. A. (2008). Management implications of recent research into the effect of bitou bush invasion. Plant Protection Quarterly, 23 (1), 24-28.

Abstract

We review recent research into the impact of bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera spp. rotundata (DC.) Norl.) on coastal ecosystems which suggest this weed is having widespread impacts on ecosystem services, flora and fauna. Increased decomposition rates and altered nutrient cycling accompany changes in plant community structure and composition. Changes in invaded habitats influence invertebrate and bird assemblages. We summarise research that shows that the establishment phase of seedlings is the key phase where bitou bush outcompetes native species through both resource and interference competition mechanisms.