Login | Request Account (DAF staff only)

Review of the Biology, Distribution, and Management of the Invasive Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis Poir)

View Altmetrics

Wijayabandara, K., Campbell, S., Vitelli, J. S., Shabbir, A. and Adkins, S. (2022) Review of the Biology, Distribution, and Management of the Invasive Fireweed (Senecio madagascariensis Poir). Plants, 11 (1). p. 107. ISSN 2223-7747

[img]
Preview
PDF
1MB

Article Link: https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11010107

Publisher URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/11/1/107

Abstract

Whilst exotic invasive species are a major threat to natural and modified ecosystems around the world, management programs to reduce their impacts often fail due to a lack of information about their biology and how best to control them in various situations. This paper reviews the currently available information on the biology, distribution, and management options for the invasive weed Senecio madagascariensis Poir. (fireweed). In addition, we developed a model to predict the climatic suitability of this weed around the world based on the current climate. Senecio madagascariensis originates from southern Africa but it has been introduced to several other countries including Australia. Climatic suitability suggests that there are large areas around the world suitable for the weed’s growth where it is currently not present. The weed poses a major threat to livestock industries in these countries through its ability to reduce pasture production and poison animals. A range of control techniques have been used to try and manage S. madagascariensis. This paper highlights how a better understanding of the biology of S. madagascariensis can help determine the most effective treatments to impose and to further develop integrated management strategies. Besides using traditional approaches, the use of competitive pastures and more tolerant livestock (such as sheep and goats) are some of the other options recommended as part of an integrated approach. On-going research to identify host-specific biological control agents is also considered a priority.

Item Type:Article
Business groups:Biosecurity Queensland
Additional Information:Open access
Keywords:CLIMEX; ecology; herbicides; impact; integrated control; pasture management
Subjects:Science > Invasive Species > Plants > Biological control
Science > Invasive Species > Plants > Eradication and containment
Science > Invasive Species > Plants > Integrated weed control
Science > Invasive Species > Plants > Weed ecology
Plant pests and diseases
Plant pests and diseases > Weeds, parasitic plants etc
Live Archive:10 Jan 2022 05:32
Last Modified:10 Jan 2022 05:32

Repository Staff Only: item control page

Downloads

Downloads per month over past year

View more statistics