Developing an RD&E project to address loss of productivity in Queensland pastures invaded by Indian couch (Bothriochloa pertusa)

Abstract

Rapid, widespread dominance of exotic, stoloniferous, perennial Indian couch (Bothriochloa pertusa) grass is occurring in Queensland pastures, with reports also for the Northern Territory. This transformation is not necessarily due to overgrazing but, nonetheless, may lead to a 50% decline in productivity and resilience in beef grazing systems, and be associated with ecological penalties, such as increased sediment run-off to the Great Barrier Reef lagoon and a decline in biodiversity. Despite several early introductions into Australia in the 1930s, and subsequent rapid spread of a less desirable strain noted in Queensland in the 1960s, there is relatively little information on the ecology, management and economics of B. pertusa.
This scoping study has been successful in collecting comprehensive, present-day feedback from beef producers on B. pertusa invasion for three catchments: Burdekin, Fitzroy, and the Burnett-Mary. Agency staff research findings relating to B. pertusa and key findings from the literature have also been collated. A synthesis of the producer knowledge and research results has identified the research gaps and priorities, and has provided the basis of a project proposal submission made to Meat & Livestock Australia Limited (MLA). The recommended specifications for RD&E include:
• mapping the extent of B. pertusa invasion
• understanding the drivers of invasion
• quantifying both landscape function and production impacts
• developing the different guidelines required for managing B. pertusa monocultures; reversing B. pertusa invasions; and options for targeted elimination of B. pertusa.