Ecological studies of the weed and its natural enemies

Studies of the ecology of the weed in its introduced and native range can provide important information of value in designing and implementing a biological control project. It can give clues to the reason why it is a weed outside its native range, identify critical points in the life cycle where biocontrol intervention is likely to be most effective and generally indicate whether the weed is a good candidate for biological control. Another important aspect of determining information about the distribution, growth and spread of the weed is the base-line it can provide for monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of released agents.

Similarly, studies of the ecology of potential biological control agents, including their use of related plants, can help determine those with most chance of being successful. This information can also assist in predicting how and where agents should be released to ensure establishment and to maximise impact on the weed.

For further information, see the Ecological Checklist and Biological Characters of Weeds.