Myrtle Rust outbreak threatens NSW Feral Herald p2 Newsletter of the Invasive Species Council, Issue 25 September 2010

Bitou bush is just one of hundreds of weeds imperilling NSW wildlife. Photo: Tim Parkinson, http://www.flickr.com/photos/timparkinson/ Report takes aim at NSW’s creeping peril he Invasive Species Council has principle, and more focus on weed launched a weed campaign in NSW management for climate adaptation. Twith a reform agenda backed by ISC will also publish a report analysing the more than 40 community groups and state and drivers of weed invasion in NSW outlined in the report ‘Stopping NSW’s and the adequacy of current responses. Creeping Peril’. ISC is very grateful for the financial and The NSW Government has committed to Download the report other support provided by the Paddy Pallin reducing the threats of invasive species by > Get the full report from our website, www.invasives.org.au. Foundation, through Rob and Nancy 2015, but its own review of progress has Pallin, and several other donations. We found that on current trends the target will need further funding to sustain this not be met. ISC is advocating the adoption of a campaign, so please, consider donating. There are more than 1660 naturalised permitted list approach (limiting new ISC staff working on this campaign are in NSW, of which over 340 are introductions to those assessed as low Andrew Cox (but about to leave for a year’s environmental weeds. The majority are risk), eradication of new or potential weeds volunteering on Solomon Islands) and Carol unregulated and there are no restrictions and containment to prevent spread into Booth, with assistance from John Sampson on the entry of thousands of other species new areas, and prioritised control of other and Tim Low. already in Australia (both exotic and native) invaders. Other recommendations address Stopping NSW’s Creeping Peril can be that are weedy elsewhere in the country or the need for more funding, a general duty downloaded from the ISC website. overseas. of care, implementation of the polluter pays continued p4

Tackling some of Australia’s toughest environmental threats web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Keep your eyes peeled for myrtle rust infection Myrtle rust infects leaves of susceptible plants producing Fungus threatens spore-filled lesions on young actively growing leaves and shoots, as well as fruits and sepals. Leaves may become buckled or twisted as a result of infection. On turpentine and callistemon rust lesions are purple in nightmare outbreak colour, with masses of bright yellow or orange-yellow spores. Older lesions may contain dark brown spores. The discovery of myrtle rust on coastal NSW could herald the arrival Reports of potential sightings can be made by calling the of a dangerous new player threatening Australia’s native biodiversity. Exotic Pest Hotline 1800 084 881.

nightmare scenario for Australia Argentina and Jamaica, and little is known rusts in Australia is very difficult, according Myrtle rust growing on A. flexuosa would be the arrival of a disease about it. Some of the overseas disease to Glen and colleagues. New pathogens can (willow myrtle cv. Afterdark). Aaffecting eucalypts, tea , outbreaks attributed to eucalyptus rust may have severe unpredictable impacts, and the and other trees and shrubs in the family have involved myrtle rust instead. Plants eucalyptus rust has dramatically increased , the biggest plant family in that could be susceptible include those in its host range following its arrival in new Left, the top and underside of willow Australia, dominating numerous ecosystems, the following genera: Acmena, Angophora, areas. The rust is thought unlikely to kill myrtle leaves infected by myrtle rust. including forests, woodlands and wetlands. Austromyrtus, Eucalyptus, Leptospermum, mature trees, but could affect regeneration Melaleuca, Syzygium, . and have long-term effects on biodiversity This nightmare could be unfolding right Right, newly formed bright yellow now with an outbreak of myrtle rust (Uredo Rust diseases can spread very quickly, and ecology. Genetic diversity could be pustules of myrtle rust on turpentine, rangelii) on NSW’s central coast in NSW. with spores blown by the wind or picked greatly reduced in highly susceptible species, glomulifera. Since being reported in April 2010, the rust up by bees and other animals (including and the composition of affected ecosystems (a type of fungus) has been found infecting humans). In Hawaii, eucalyptus rust was first could change. Information taken from Industry & Investment NSW. Photos courtesy CSIRO eight cultivated native species on six reported in April 2005, and had spread to Analyses of areas thought to be commercial properties (cut flower farms and all but one island by the end of the year. In climatically suitable for eucalyptus rust in areas, and is conducting surveillance in wholesale nurseries). Native eucalypt forest Jamaica it reportedly spread over 5000 km2 Australia show the highest-risk areas to be surrounding nurseries and bushland. adjoins the property where the rust was first within one year. Once a rust has spread into on the east coast of Australia and across the The federal and other state governments discovered. bushland, eradication is usually impossible. top of the . have agreed to contribute funds for an The most feared disease of eucalypts, The authors of the paper reporting the It’s not known how myrtle rust entered eradication attempt. eucalyptus rust (also known as guava rust, outbreak of myrtle rust in Australia, Angus Australia, but it highlights the inevitable ISC has been concerned that the Puccinia psidii) has been spreading around Carnegie and colleagues, suggest it “may risks associated with importing live plants. response has been slow, with quarantine the world from its native South America, have a serious impact on native plant Australia permits the entry of Myrtaceae restrictions only imposed four months after and was reported in Hawaii in 2005. It can communities and on plant industries based plants as nursery stock from many different detection, but is pleased that the incursion infect a wide variety of Myrtaceae species on members of the family Myrtaceae”. countries, but not from the United States is now recognised as a national priority. and has caused severe disease in Australian As yet, there have been no tests to and other countries known to host Most states have announced movement species grown overseas. determine which species in Australia are eucalyptus rust or Phytophthora ramorum. conditions for cut flowers and nursery stock The risk of new plant pathogens arriving in Australia The myrtle rust just discovered in susceptible to infection by myrtle rust. Of The Invasive Species Council questions of Myrtaceae species. “As native, locally adapted plant heritage. Movement of plants and plant Australia is closely related to the eucalyptus the 83 native Myrtaceae species tested whether any imports of Myrtaceae species The NSW Government is asking rust, part of the same complex of rusts with eucalyptus rust in Australia, 73 (88%) should be permitted, because of the communities evolved, guilds of unique products between biogeographical zones community members to keep an eye out for pathogenic microorganisms, viruses by human activities is now generally known to infect Myrtaceae. It was first showed some degree of susceptibility. There potential for pathogens to spread into signs of the disease (see box for description). described only in 2006 and recorded in are 1646 native Myrtaceae species known in new countries and escape detection until and viroids evolved in association with accepted to be the primary mode of It is vital to do as much as possible to Australia, including more than 140 that are it is too late, and for the potential for new them. Today these organisms often introduction of exotic pathogens and eradicate the rust and prevent further federally threatened. If those testing results pathogens to arise. Lloyd Loope in a review cause little noticeable damage to pests.” incursions. There are probably hundreds or are indicative of Myrtaceae species generally of eucalyptus rust in Hawaii notes of another their host plants, having developed a – CM Brasier 2008 thousands of different genotypes of myrtle and apply also to myrtle rust, this recent eucalyptus pest, Leptocyble invasa (the blue natural balance through co-evolution. Potential pathways for rust incursions and eucalypt rusts, some of which would Feral Herald incursion could seriously impact on many gum chalcid wasp), that it “represents the However, major problems may arise if (the spores of eucalypt rust can remain Editor be more invasive and infective than others, Australian ecosystems. Morag Glen and phenomenon of new pests spreading … and a pathogen escapes – or is introduced viable for at least two months outside Carol Booth. and which in combination could have co-authors of a review of eucalyptus rust being described as a new species elsewhere – to another region of the world where hosts): Layout catastrophic impacts. point out that even species with low levels before even being discovered in Australia”. the native plants have little resistance > Importation of Myrtaceae products, John Sampson. ISC has written to the federal and state and the pathogen has eluded its natural of susceptibility can play “a significant role in The incursion also highlights the risks including plants, seed, pollen, flowers, Feral Herald is produced by the Invasive governments to urge a comprehensive enemies. Such events can trigger maintaining the pathogen and facilitating its of siting commercial plant operations next timber products. Species Council. We welcome story ideas response to this incursion and strong damaging disease episodes that may > Illegal movement of plant material. and contributions. survival and spread”. to bushland. The property where the rust measures to prevent further incursions. also have long-term negative impacts on > With travelers, on clothing or luggage. The eucalyptus rust kills shoot tips, which was first detected borders eucalypt forest the environment, economy and cultural Invasive Species Council Inc. can lead to the death of young trees, and and has eucalypts growing on the property. > Dispersal on air currents. ABN 101 522 829 References has caused extensive damage in eucalyptus ISC recommends planning laws establish Address: PO Box 166 Fairfield, VIC 3078 Carnegie A, Lidbetter J, Walker J, Horwood M, plantations, with the loss of almost entire conditions for commercial plant operations Tesoriero L, Glen M and Priest M. 2010. Uredo Email: [email protected] plantings in Brazil. In Hawaii, the disease that limit risks of pathogen spread into Rangelii, a Taxon in the Guava Rust Complex, Newly Australasian Plant Pathology 36(1): 1-16. NSW Government website: see http://www.dpi.nsw. Website: www.invasives.org.au has caused severe dieback of the common bushland by requiring buffer zones. Recorded on Myrtaceae in Australia. Australasian Plant Loope, L. 2010. A summary of information on the rust gov.au/biosecurity/plant/myrtle-rust. Pathology 39: 463-66. Puccinia psidii Winter (Guava Rust) with emphasis on Views expressed in this newsletter are not paperbark (Melaleuca quinquinervia), The NSW Government has responded to Brasier, CM. 2008. The biosecurity threat to the UK infecting it at all ages. Glen M, Alfenas A, Zauza E, Wingfield M and means to prevent introduction of additional strains and global environment from international trade in always those of ISC. the incursion by declaring a Quarantine Area Mohammed C. 2007. Puccinia Psidii: A Threat to the to Hawaii. US Department of the Interior and US plants. Plant Pathology 57: 792-808. ISSN 1449-891X Predicting the impact of any of these in the Gosford and Wyong local government Australian Environment and Economy – a Review. Geological Survey.

2 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 3 NSW’S GROWING WEED CRISIS Cape Ivy. Photo: Andrew Cox STAGES OF INVASION PROCESS INTRODUCTION ESTABLISHMENT INVASION – PROLIFERATION INVASION – IMPACT NUMBERS ~11,000 exotic and native ~1665 species naturalised >340 environmental weeds. ~130 impacting plant taxa introduced for (25% of NSW flora, 14% of threatened biodiversity. cultivation into NSW. introduced taxa). 134 ranked ~30,000 exotic plant taxa in moderate-extreme threat. Australia. MANAGEMENT OPTIONS Prevent introduction/ escape, Eradicate if feasible, otherwise Contain and control to prevent Control to protect eradicate if escaped. contain and control to prevent spread. biodiversity and other spread. values. The Kroombit tinker frog is hanging on for survival in a few patches of rainforest near Gladstone, . Photo: Harry Hines CURRENT MANAGEMENT No restrictions on sale/ No state eradication programs No restrictions on sale/move- No restrictions on many movement of most species; in NSW. ment of majority of environmental threatening weeds; good no requirements for risk weeds; Some successful programs control focus in national assessment of introductions. but insufficient control to prevent parks; insufficient control spread of many serious invaders. in many other locations. Koombit tinker frog – Report takes aim at NSW’s creeping peril ... from p1 as having a ‘significant impact’ on of weeds on threatened biodiversity in NSW. CRC for NSW’s environment; 135 species are Australian Weed Management Systems, Adelaide. assaults on a survivor www.weedscrc.org.au/documents/tech_series.html. rated a moderate to extreme threat NSW’s wicked weed statistics Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. Tim Low (cf Australia: about 30% of naturalised Census of Cultivated Plants 2009. Database. ISC Project Officer Number of species naturalised in NSW species are considered a ‘major Downey P, Scanlon T and Hosking J. 2010. Prioritising (established self-sustaining populations in problem’ and 50% a ‘minor problem’ alien plant species based on their ability to impact everal Australian frog species the wild): for natural ecosystems, about 16% are a on biodiversity: a case study from New South Wales. have recently become extinct • At least 1665 plant species have major problem for agriculture). Plant Protection Quarterly 25(3): 111-26. from amphibian chytrid fungus naturalised in NSW (cf Australia: at Groves R, Boden R and Lonsdale W. 2005. Jumping S the Garden Fence: Invasive garden plants in Australia (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis), a least 3100 naturalised species). Weeds threatening biodiversity and their environmental and agricultural impacts. pathogen believed to be indigenous to • Naturalised species now constitute • In 2006, weeds were ranked as CSIRO report prepared for WWF-Australia. WWF- the second-biggest threat to NSW Australia, Sydney. Africa. Now one endangered survivor is about 26% of NSW’s total vascular flora facing a new invasive threat. (cf Australia: about 14% of total vascular biodiversity, after land clearing, and Groves RH, Hosking JR, Batianoff GN, Cooke DA, Cowie equivalent to inappropriate fire regimes. ID, Johnson RW, Keighery GJ, Lepschi BJ, Mtichell AA, The Kroombit tinker frog Taudactylus( flora). Moerkerk M, Randall RP, Rozefields AC, Walsh NG and • At least 127 weed species are an pleione), only named in 1986, is found in a Waterhouse BM. 2003. Weed categories for natural few patches of rainforest at Kroombit Tops Rate of naturalisations identified threat to threatened species and agricultural ecosystem management. Bureau of or endangered ecological communities Rural Sciences, Canberra. near Gladstone in Queensland, totalling just • An average 7.2 species have naturalised listed under NSW legislation. This is a Hosking J, Conn B and Lepschi J. 2003. Plant species 140 hectares. Its disappearance from the every year in NSW since European considerable underestimate, due to lack first recognised as naturalised for New South Wales largest patch of rainforest in about 1997 is over the period 2000–2001. Cunninghamia 8(2): colonisation in 1778 (cf Australia: of information about the impacts of attributed to chytrid fungus. average 13.4 species/year). 175-87. many weed species. Hosking J, Conn B, Lepschi J and Barker C. 2006. Plant The surviving populations occur in smaller • The rate of naturalisation has increased • At least 341 threatened species (40% of species first recognised as naturalised for New South patches of rainforest along steep drainage in recent decades: an average 20 newly Wales in 2002 and 2003, with additional comments lines. The frogs survived in these places, it is the total listed under NSW legislation in on species recognised as naturalised in 2000–2001. naturalised species a year have been 2006) are threatened by weed invasion. thought, because there is too little surface Kroombit Tops National Park is about 120 km south of Rockhampton. recorded since 1990 (although that is Cunninghamia 10(1): 139-66. water for other frog species, which serve as due partly to more rigorous botanical • At least 64 endangered ecological NSW State Government. 2009. NSW State of the Envi- reservoirs for the disease. The Queensland National Parks and control pigs, and the parks service has communities (89% of the total listed ronment 2009. Department of Environment, Climate Wildlife Service wants to control the pigs a very limited budget. The patches of searches and more comprehensive Change and Water. http://www.environment.nsw.gov. But now it is threatened by feral pigs, under NSW legislation in 2006) are but they are very difficult to trap or shoot in rainforest the frog survives in are very record-keeping) (cf Australia: an average au/soe/soe2009/. grubbing and wallowing in the muddy threatened by weed invasion. the steep terrain, and seldom take poison insubstantial and difficult to access. The two 45 new species recorded naturalised/ Coutts-Smith AJ and Downey PO. 2006. The impact drainage lines. They invaded the frog’s year since 1990, again due in part to of weeds on threatened biodiversity in NSW. CRC for baits. we visited both showed recent fire damage. Sources habitat only about ten years ago. better records). Australian Weed Management Systems, Adelaide. A tour to Kroombit Tops to hear about the I came away thinking that the Kroombit Australian National Botanic Gardens. 2009. Australian www.weedscrc.org.au/documents/tech_series.html. A third and longer term threat is climate Flora and Vegetation Statistics. Australian Govern- Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. change, which could reduce water flows pig problem was part of the Queensland tinker frog is likely to find its way onto Number of environmental weeds ment. http://www.anbg.gov.au/aust-veg/australian- Census of Cultivated Plants 2009. Database. in the gullies, and increase the intensity Pest Symposium held in Gladstone in Queensland’s extinct list. in NSW flora-statistics.html Randall RP. 2007. The introduced flora of Australia and of fires that burn deep into the narrow August. It was an opportunity for pig Feral cattle and feral horses were also Chapman A. 2009. Numbers of Living Species in Aus- its weed status. CRC for Australian Weed Manage- experts to come together with the parks • At least 340 weeds (about 20% of ment and Department of Agriculture and Food, rainforest strips. A wildfire in 1984 caused threats to the frog, but no longer, for the tralia and the World, 2nd ed. Report for the Australian service to discuss control options. naturalised species) have been assessed Biological Resources Study. Canberra. , Adelaide. http://www.weeds.crc. significant damage to some of the rainforest simple reason that the frogs now survive Coutts-Smith AJ and Downey PO. 2006. The impact org.au/weed_management/intro_flora.html. patches. Unfortunately, there is no easy way to only on land too steep for them.

4 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 5 Q. How would you describe your role ISC gets in relation to your Steve Mathews interest in invasive FROM THE PRESIDENT species? Select one big response or more. Hello everyone, there is quite a bit of news Andrew has given his time freely and both made donations to ISC – you are helping to report from ISC. of them have done a fantastic job. continue the fight to get invasives issues Firstly, the we are about to appoint a new The plan refocuses our efforts on tackling adequately addressed. to online coordinator, as Carol Booth needs more the large and complex invasive species time to work on other projects. We have problem. We will focus on three main ISC’s AGM been incredibly lucky to have had Carol objectives: ISC’s AGM will be held on 8 September, survey work with us these last couple of years. She 1. Build ISC’s (organisational) capacity for 5.45 pm at Space 39 Gallery, Level 2, Little Andrew Cox has worked extremely hard, far beyond ‘the powerful advocacy. Collins St, Melbourne. call of duty’, and has consistently produced 2. Build strong public support for effective Unfortunately a talk by Professor Tony e were delighted by how many timely work of the highest possible action [on invasive species] Peacock, CEO of the Invasive Animals CRC, people responded to our online standard. We are extremely grateful for survey in May. A total of 158 3. Achieve law, policy and program has been cancelled. W her enthusiasm, vision, ability and input. people participated, including 30% who reforms in high priority areas. We are also seeking people to serve on Luckily for us, she has very kindly offered to were members, while the rest were the board. In particular, we need someone continue to help ISC in the area of invasives The strategy is essential in setting the extremely interested in our work. direction for our work and explaining our prepared to act as secretary. Please contact policy and lobbying. The survey yielded useful results that have reform agenda to supporters and funders. ISC [email protected] for information ISC received more than 50 applications about the board and to discuss your already helped us develop a new five-year for the position of coordinator, and the The strategy also sets out a new structure interest. plan. for ISC, which focuses on building our interview panel was very impressed and I will be retiring as ISC president at the Respondents come from a broad range of gratified by the standard of applicants. supporter base. All members will receive a backgrounds and are very active on invasive letter outlining the changes. AGM. It has been a very gratifying role and It was very difficult for the panel to a pleasure working with really excellent issues, mostly weeds. Just over half are decide as there were many well-qualified Please email ISC [email protected] to people such as Carol, Tim Low and John active on their land and in their local area applicants with a passion for the job. receive a copy of the 5-year strategic plan. Sampson, as well as the members of the controlling weeds. Most (95%) are actively We hope we can employ some of the Thank you again to Andrew Cox and board. telling people about invasive issues. candidates in future roles as we increase Carol Booth for their fantastic work on Thanks to everyone for working so hard Most respondents said they are willing our resources. Q. What are the main things this strategy, to Karen Alexander and and giving up so much of your time to to continue to help on invasives issues, and It is gratifying to have so many people you already do to contribute Robert Perey for advice, to members and achieve progress in the area of invasives. 40% or more would like to help ‘a lot’ when to protect Australia’s with a desire to work in conservation on supporters who completed the online it comes to lobbying government for reform, environment from invasive I strongly urge your continued support invasive species issues. We will introduce survey, and to the ISC board members for controlling invasive species in their local species? Select the extent of for ISC and its advocacy on invasive the new coordinator to members and their participation in developing it. area and on their land, conducting scientific your involvement for each species. I believe this is the best way to choice. colleagues soon. research and telling others about invasive make widespread gains for biodiversity problems and solutions. Funding conservation. Despite being recognised ISC’s strategic plan We have had a number of generous as one of the top threats to biodiversity, if The response to ISC’s performance on were from overseas, from countries such research, publication, lobbying & publicising We have been very fortunate to have donations from members and supporters, not the most serious threat, it is still vastly five difference indicators averaged about as Canada, Kenya, the Philippines, USA and of issues”. In expectation of greater things, assistance from Andrew Cox and Carol to help us with our work. This has been under-represented in terms of conservation 4 (very good) on a scale of 0 to 5. The Feral New Zealand. We had good representation another said “I would like the Council to be Booth in preparing ISC’s five-year strategic very encouraging, and gives us all the focus, and still just seems to slip under Herald, the quality of our work, then Double from most Australian states, except NT more media savvy and pro-active politically. plan (2010-2015) – both have worked confidence that we have the support from the radar of NGOs, government and the Trouble were rated highest, while our and Tasmania, with Victorians being the Independent (non-paid, volunteer) science extremely hard to see this process through our members to continue our work. community in general. It is up to us to fundraising letters were rated the lowest. strongest. needs to have a voice that is different from from start to finish. Many, many thanks to those who have change this scenario. We received more than 200 suggestions We received a huge range of general government and consultancy (paid) science. for what people regard as the most pressing comments and feedback about our work Thanks all who contributed to the issues in the future. Of course many of through the survey. One person said: “There survey. While we can’t respond to all the the issues raised were similar. The most is a strong strategic need for the ISC, so ideas and offers of help, we have thought frequent response was climate change and great to see you working on keeping the long and hard about the issues you raised Update on federal biosecurity work new weeds. dream alive” while another said ISC “should and will remain on the path of continued he federal election has delayed and set policy) similar to that of the New federal biosecurity laws Interestingly, 10% of our respondents continue & expand the independent improvement. agriculture minister. a Federal Government response New federal biosecurity laws to implement Tto the 2009 Hawke review of the the recommendations of the 2008 Beale Greater powers for the environment Environment Protection and Biodiversity review of quarantine and biosecurity are minister in federal biosecurity is consistent Conservation Act 1999. Environment being drafted, but have been delayed due with recommendations by Dr Allen Hawke, Top science gong for feral crusader groups, including ISC, have made joint to other government priorities. in the review of the EPBC Act. Professor Tony Peacock received one devastating effect feral animals have on and individual recommendations to ISC’s Carol Booth has been participating in He has recommended that biosecurity of Australia’s top science awards, the Australia’s environment. the government to adopt most of the a working group established by the Federal responsibilities in the EPBC Act (concerning prestigious Australian Museum Eureka One of Professor Peacock’s priorities is recommendations. Government to respond to proposed the assessment of live imports) be prize, in Sydney last month. stopping the next wave of feral animals There was uniform joint support for the reforms. While the new independent transferred to the new biosecurity agency Chief Executive Officer for the Invasive – hybrid pets, animals with a mix of wild reforms relevant to invasive species, which Biosecurity Authority proposed by the provided the environment is given sufficient Animals Cooperative Research Centre and domestic genes – from making it into received a strong focus in the review due to Beale review will be provided with broad priority in the new arrangements. based at the University of Canberra, Australia. ISC advocacy. More than 30 weed scientists powers and flexible tools, ISC is concerned The federal and state/territory Professor Peacock took out the gong for the His repeated warnings of the likely also wrote a joint letter to the government that there will be insufficient environmental governments have been negotiating a highly contested category of ‘Promoting devastating impact of Savannah Cats Understanding of Science’. supporting the Hawke review proposal for focus. We have recommended that the new biosecurity agreement, which will on Australia’s environment convinced Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre a COAG process to develop post-border environment minister be accorded authority include new cost-sharing arrangements for The award recognises his efforts the Federal Government to ban their CEO Professor Tony Peacock received an protocols for invasive species. in the new regime (to make appointments incursions. to investigate and communicate the importation in 2008. Australian Museum Eureka prize last month.

6 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 7 Giant reed, a fuel for super hot, giant fires roposals to plant giant reeed (Arundo recovering giant reed grew 3-4 times faster donax) as a biofuel in Australia than native woody plants, reaching Pcombine two of ISC’s major concerns 2.5 metres height within three months of in recent years – hot-burning invasive the fire. grasses and weedy biofuels. ‘One year post-fire,A. donax density was Gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus) nearly 20 times higher and productivity was and other large invasive grasses produce 14–24 times higher than for native woody very hot fires when they burn, often killing species,’ they reported. shrubs and trees, and facilitating further Giant reed resprouted much faster than invasion of the grasses via a fire-driven cycle native plants, making good use of the Giant reed, proposed as a biofuel in Australia, of invasion. In recent reports about climate nutrients released by ash. A year after has been fuelling very large fires in California. change and fire (see Bradstock 2010 and the fire it made up 99% of the post-fire Photo: John Sullivan, http://www.flickr.com/photos/ Williams et al. 2009), the potential of these vegetation. mollivan_jon/ grasses to increase fire risk has received much emphasis. Giant reed is valued as a biofuel because change. But climate change has become it grows so fast – as much as 10cm in a day Weedy biofuels have the potential to a justification to grow a flammable grass, – which also explains its success as a weed. invade vast areas because enormous when it should be an additional reason to The finding that it is a fire-exploiting grass plantings will be needed to make any dent ban it. Giant reed is on the IUCN list of ‘100 provides another reason not to grow it. in greenhouse gas emissions. The two crops of the World’s Worst Invasive Alien Species’. concerning us most have been giant reed In 2009 the South Australian government References ended trials of giant reed after a series and jatropha (Jatropha curcas) (see ISC’s Coffman, G.C, Ambrose, R.F. and Rundel, P.W. (2010) Australian islands deserve report on weedy biofuels by Low and Booth of complaints from ISC (see Feral Herald Wildfire promotes dominance of invasive giant reed 2007). 24), but interest has emerged from other (Arundo donax) in riparian ecosystems. Biol Invasions quarters. (2010) 12:2723–2734 Giant reed is a much larger grass than Bradstock RA. 2010. A Biogeographic Model of Fire gamba grass, and we have been aware In January 2010, Norwegian company Regimes in Australia: Current and Future Implications. tougher national protection of it fuelling very large fires in California, ENEnergy was reported on ABC News to Global Ecology and Biogeography 19(2): 145-158. a problem that has now been properly be proposing to plant more than 300,000 Low T and Booth C. 2007. The Weedy Truth About With more than 8300 offshore islands in Australia we need a nationally consistent documented. In a recent article in Biological hectares of giant reed in northern Australia. Biofuels. Melbourne, Invasive Species Council. The company’s website lists three field Williams R, Bradstock R, Cary G, Enright N, Gill Invasions, Gretchen Coffman and two A, Liedloff A, Lucas C, Whelan R, Andersen A, approach for the protecting them from invasions, writes Ray Nias. colleagues at the University of California development projects underway or in Bowman D, Clarke P, Cook G, Hennessy K and York assessed its success following fire. planning in Australia. A. 2009. Interactions between Climate Change, Fire xpensive efforts to control invasive eradication of organisms that threaten species such as cats or rats, and After a 2003 wildfire burned through Australia has the most flammable Regimes and Biodiversity in Australia - a Preliminary species on islands in Australia island ecosystems through a National Island occasional surveillance of lower priority Assessment. Department of Climate Change and are evidence we need a more Biosecurity Initiative that includes: islands. riparian woodlands along the Santa Clara vegetation in the world, and the most to fear Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and E River, Coffman and colleagues found that from an increased fire risk under climate the Arts. comprehensive and strategic biosecurity • Establishing biosecurity priorities for all • Best practice approaches developed regime for Australian islands at risk. islands based on their ecological values and/or modified from existing WWF Australia and Reef Catchments and risk assessment. resources and appropriate training for Anything for a view Mackay Whitsunday Inc, with support from • Development of biosecurity island managers. Fox detection in Tasmania In coastal areas, bushcare groups often find the Invasive Species Council and other management systems for all islands. • Establishment of ready response their work vandalised by landowners trying groups, produced a proposal for such an High priority and high risk islands capability including the ready to keep ocean views. initiative to coincide with the Australian (e.g. those with development or availability of equipment. boosted by DNA lab Some councils reduce the incentive for federal election and review of the Caring people living on them) should have an • A range of tailored education programs Detection of foxes in Tasmania was given such vandalism by erecting a barrier similar for our Country program. individual biosecurity management targeted at island dwellers and visitors. a boost last month with the opening of a in size to any trees lost. However, NSW’s The proposal argues that for a modest system; those with a lower risk can be A National Island Biosecurity Initiative new DNA testing lab at the University of Shoalhaven Council has decided to prioritise investment of around $1 million Australia managed via regional management could lay the foundations for an effective, Canberra. views over bush regeneration. could establish a strategic framework for systems. nationally consistent approach to The lab will allow scientists to study In late July they asked for a new bushcare island biosecurity based on an assessment • Biosecurity management systems post-border island biosecurity assisting samples of biological material, like scat, hair, policy that preserves ocean views, removes of island biodiversity values and a risk that include both the prevention directly in the prevention of extinction or bone, that contain only small amounts of some existing buschare plantings and uses assessment approach to potentially of incursions through quarantine of hundreds of threatened species and DNA or have DNA that is degraded. buffalo grass Stenotaphrum( secundatum) as invasive non-indigenous species. approaches and establishment of ecosystems and protection for globally Professor Stephen Sarre, Deputy anti-erosion vegetation. Of the 8300 offshore islands in Australia systems to control importation of significant populations of migratory Director at the Institute for Applied Ecology Buffalo grass is an environmental weed it is likely that the vast majority are species for domestic and agricultural species. at the University of Canberra, said it would that invades forests, open woodlands, and directly relevant to one or more Matters purposes. Biosecurity management Professor Stephen Sarre with a storage unit that – Ray Nias is from TierraMar Consulting enhance work the university is already coastal areas. Local bushcare volunteers of National Environmental Significance systems should cover both terrestrial holds DNA samples in the new laboratory. doing to detect the presence of foxes in are outraged, and ISC is supporting their under the EPBC Act. The Commonwealth and marine organisms. More information Tasmania using scats collected on the island. DNA testing of a scat collected from endeavour to have the decision reversed. should therefore take a leadership role • Regular surveillance of high and > The proposal is available from the Island Arks The lab will focus on the study of North Bruny Island off Tasmania has con- in developing a nationally consistent website, www.islandarks.com.au. Comments You can help by writing to The General medium priority islands, e.g. those with about how to promote the concept as well as Australian wildlife and many invasive spe- firmed it comes from a fox, precipitating Manager, Shoalhaven City Council, at PO approach and standards for the prevention populations of threatened species that suggestions for additional proposals to address island cies such as feral cats, foxes, deer and pigs. intensive monitoring on the island. Box 42, Nowra NSW 2541. of invasion, early detection and rapid would be threatened by an invasive conservation and sustainable use are welcome.

8 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 9 Kakadu Australian biosecurity mammals should be a team effort in deadly Carol Booth Key threatening processes ISC Policy Officer Invasive species constitute the greatest proportion of declared threatening lthough invasive species are one processes, but remedies rely in many cases decline of the big threats to Australian on agricultural authorities. If the Victorian 13-year survey program (1996–2009) Abiodiversity, most regulatory environment agency declares tall wheat grass in Kakadu National Park has found a authority resides within agricultural a threatening process (see Feral Herald issue agencies, because until recently quarantine Download the report Acatastrophic decline in small > Get our report, Weedy Pasture Plants for Salinity 24), it will have no authority to regulate sale mammals, probably due in large part to and biosecurity were focused primarily on Control from our website, www.invasives.org.au. and use of the species. The agency can spend invasive species and too frequent fires. agricultural threats. taxpayers’ money controlling a threatening John Woinarksi and co-authors reported in This means that the role of environmental powers to appoint commissioners and set invader another agency continues to Wildlife Research earlier this year that there agencies is often limited to control policy for the new proposed Biosecurity promote or ignore. had been a 71% decline in small mammal programs in national parks and for Authority. abundance and a 54% decline in the number threatened species. In some cases, Here are some of the issues that should Agency culture and priorities environmental agencies or ministers are of species observed (trapping, spotlighting, inform institutional arrangements for The mission statements of most agricultural reduced to lobbying their agricultural scats) in each study area. biosecurity. agencies typically do not mention the counterparts to ban or eradicate an The number of areas where not a single The nationally endangered northern quoll is particularly susceptible to cane toad poison. natural environment, which is often a low environmentally threatening invader. mammal was observed increased from Photo: Wildlife Explorer, http://picasaweb.google.com/wildlifeexplorer.oz Conflicts of interest priority within the department overall. Invasive species are undoubtedly a 13% in 1996 to 55% in 2009. Agricultural agencies can have conflicts For example, the official purpose of the major threat to agriculture and the most The most marked declines were for the for the declines. Cane toads may be native species, including two endemic of interest over agricultural plants that Victorian Department of Primary Industries expensive natural resource management northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), fawn affecting other carnivorous mammals, Christmas Island rats rendered extinct. threaten the environment. This is manifest is “to sustainably maximise the wealth problem for farmers, costing well over antechinus (Antechinus bellus), northern but they were in decline before the arrival Threats are likely to be operating in in the case of tall wheat grass in Victoria and wellbeing” generated from primary $5 billion a year in lost production and bandicoot (Isoodon macrourus), common of toads. tandem – for example, predation by cats (see ISCs report ‘Weedy Pasture Plants for industries. Environmental advocacy groups control, so it is appropriate that agricultural brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), Fire is likely to be a major factor, but can- is likely to be more intense in extensively Salinity Control’), which was released by the are often not regarded as important agencies have a major role in invasive and the pale field-rat Rattus( tunneyi). not alone explain the rapid decline because burnt areas. primary industries department with no risk stakeholders by agricultural ministers, species management. However, the frequent fire has been characteristic of the assessment, and which the government is advisors and departmental managers, who It is “disconcerting”, the authors say, that The authors call for “an urgent manage- environmental impacts are at least as park for at least 30-50 years. refusing to regulate despite the grave risk to are selected mostly for their experience these declines have occurred in one of ment response”, including a substantial serious. Australia’s “largest and best-resourced Feral cats could be a major factor. reduction in the extent and frequency of many threatened species and ecosystems. with agriculture rather than biodiversity. national parks”, and that many of the Although cats have been present for fire and research to determine the relative The most effective institutional declining species are “closely related in more than a century, numbers may have contribution of predation by cats, poisoning arrangement would reflect the importance Funding Public good balance increased recently due to loss of dingos by toads and disease to the declines. of invasive species in each domain, and ecology or taxonomy to the mammal species If both environmental and agricultural Protecting the natural environment from that became extinct elsewhere in Australia infected with heartworm. provide authority to each agency to manage Reference agencies have a strong stake in biosecurity invasive species is much more dependent over the period of ~1860–1960.” species that threaten relevant portfolio There is no evidence for disease, but the Woinarski JCZ, Armstrong M, Brennan K et al. 2010. responsibilities. The overall goals should be as part of their portfolio responsibilities, on government involvement as a public Apart from the known impacts of cane authors note the increasing presence of Monitoring indicates rapid and severe decline of na- to promote greater cooperation between there is potential for bigger budgets with good than is protection of agriculture toads on northern quolls, there is little black rats (Rattus rattus), which carry tive small mammals in Kakadu National Park, northern two agencies jointly promoting reforms and because there is little commercial incentive Australia. Wildlife Research 37: 116–126. the agencies, ensure priority environmental evidence to point to any particular causes parasites that have previously affected and agricultural threats are addressed, and bidding for funds. to protect biodiversity. strengthen the priority given to biosecurity within governments and budgets. Numerical weighting Conservation advantages ISC does not imply that agricultural Invasive species threatening or potentially Increasing the responsibility of Exotic species sold online inherently risky ministers, departments and individual threatening biodiversity outnumber those environmental agencies for environmental n 2006, New Zealand authorities seized The aquarium trade is particularly are high. The researchers found that more officers are not committed to conservation. that threaten agriculture, because there is invaders is consistent with the need to 16 smuggled lizards advertised for high risk. The invasive seaweed Caulerpa than 90% of orders for prohibited aquatic Some are staunch conservationists, some a greater diversity of natural environments focus conservation across landscapes, not Isale on the NZ version of eBay. They taxifolia has had dramatic ecological and plant species were fulfilled and that more aren’t. However, institutional arrangements than there are agricultural systems. just in the patches of habitat represented included emerald monitors infected economic consequences in many parts than 90% of orders contained a plant or should maximise the potential for both Groves and colleagues (2003) estimated by national parks. The environmental with a protozoan and iguanas infected with of the world after being released from animal species not requested, including environmentally and agriculturally that about 30% of naturalised plant species threat of invasive species warrants a role a Salmonella serotype, both new to New aquaria. It can be readily obtained over noxious weeds. There were misidentified responsible decisions, no matter which are a “major problem” for managers of for environmental agencies more extensive Zealand. This was one example of the risks the internet both in New Zealand and from plants in 18% of orders and unordered individuals make the decisions. There is natural ecosystems, compared to 16% than that of a land manager. It would of online trading in exotic species provided overseas. seeds in 43%. greater potential for this if environmental for agriculture (see ‘Weed Categories also assist constructive interactions with in a brief overview by Jose Derraik and In New Zealand (and in Australia), agencies have a strong role. for Natural and Agricultural Ecosystem vegetation management (usually regulated References: Simon Phillips. no single authority has responsibility At the federal level, as the government Management’). Most newly invading by environmental agencies) and raise the Derraik J, Phillips S. 2010. Online trade poses a profile of invasive species threats within They warned that online trade in for monitoring online auction sites, so threat to biosecurity in New Zealand. Biological implements the recommendations of the species are environmental rather than conservation circles. Biosecurity for both frogs is increasing risks of establishment detection of illegal sales is ad hoc. Invasions 12(6): 1477–80. Beale review of quarantine there is good agricultural threats. Current lists of declared environment and agriculture could benefit when people tire of their pets and One test of the likely extent of internet Maki K, Galatowitsch S. 2004. Movement of invasive potential to set in place new arrangements species mostly do not reflect the greater aquatic plants into Minnesota (USA) through from a joint regulatory approach and much release them (despite it being illegal), and trade in illegal aquarium products in that accord authority to both environmental number of environmental threats. Most horticultural trade. Biological Conservation 118: weed threats to the environment are not greater shared responsibility. facilitating the spread of chytrid fungus the United States (reported by Maki & 389–396. and agricultural ministers. ISC has (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). Galatowitsch in 2004) suggested the risks recommended that both ministers have regulated.

10 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 11 How many invaders are Our love affair with Asian there? house guest needs a rethink e should find it amazing that Tim Low Australian authorities do not know ISC Project Officer Whow many naturalised and invasive species are in the country. ne of Australia’s more endearing But it is not amazing at all when you invasive species is the Asian house consider that the number of native species Ogecko (Hemidactylus frenatus). is also unknown. In many homes in the northern half of Photo: Matthew Baker Between 2006 and 2009, close to 9000 Australia their presence is welcomed, both INVASIVE SPECIES IN AUSTRALIA – numbers, pathways & costs for the entertainment they provide at night new plant species (excluding algae) were Plants Vertebrates Fish Invertebrates Marine Micro- added to the Australian list, and there could (vascular (birds, reptiles, (freshwater) (terrestrial & organisms organisms by scampering across walls, and for their be another 1300 undiscovered plant only) amphibia, freshwater) & fungi perceived role in reducing mosquito and species, and another 130,000 insects (triple mammals) cockroach numbers. Asian house geckoes are pale lizards that are readily the number currently known). According to Introduced – >30,000 ~650 (including ~1200 Thousands Thousands Thousands But in a recent review of this lizard in distinguished from native house-dwelling geckoes by Arthur Chapman, who compiled the native exotic species in captivity) Australia, biologist Conrad Hoskin warns of the tiny spines along the sides of their tails. species tally for the Australian Introduced – >12,000 Unknown >50 Unknown Unknown Unknown its potential to become an environmental Photo: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hemidactylus_frenatus.jpg Government in 2009, there are 147,579 native species problem. Although found mainly on accepted described species in Australia but Major pathways Mostly Mostly Mostly Mostly Mostly Mostly buildings in cities and towns, its numbers in To other small lizards they are very thought should be given to their removal. the estimated total is quadruple that at of introduction deliberate: deliberate: deliberate: accidental: accidental: accidental: bushland are increasing. aggressive, sometimes displacing them horticulture agriculture, aquarium with traded hull with traded Buildings inside national parks may serve more than 560,000. & agriculture hunting, pets, trade, products, on fouling, products In the Northern Territory Asian house completely. In the Mascarene Islands as foci for invasion into natural habitats. In the table, right, we have done our best acclimatisation fishing, wind, water & ballast or with geckoes have been found up to a kilometre three gecko species have been displaced He recommends their removal from such ballast other organ- water, introduced so comprehensively they are now extinct. to tally up the number of introduced, isms aquacul- organisms from any dwelling. The natural habitats structures, and careful checks of building naturalised and invasive species in Australia. ture they occupy across northern Australia now Competitive displacement of other geckoes materials to stop them being introduced has been noted on other tropical islands in Unsurprisingly, the most accurate numbers Naturalised >3,100 ~60 34 Thousands 130->300 Unknown include monsoon rainforests, mangroves, when toilet blocks and picnic shelters are available are for vertebrate animals and eucalypt woodlands, beach forests and the Pacific and Indian Oceans. built. Proportion of 14% 2% (2358) 13% (258) Unknown Unknown Unknown plants, and there are not even estimates rocky gullies. In Australia they often replace native biota (known (19,324) 6% mammals (98,700) He also warns about the potential for available for invertebrates (however, native species) (386) Numbers are invariably higher in urban geckoes on dwellings but it is not known other new reptiles to be introduced to Tasmania’s state of the environment report 4% birds (828) areas than in bushland, leading to a popular if similar displacement is occurring in wild Australia, including the closely related lists close to 1000 exotic invertebrates, belief that they are poorly adapted to habitats. tropical house gecko (H. mabouia): suggesting a total for Australia in the many Invasive with >1000 ~30 ~10 Unknown Unknown Unknown environmental forests. But Hoskin notes that when native There can be no doubt that Asian house ‘Australia has thus far suffered few reptile thousands). impacts geckoes live on buildings they often achieve gecko numbers have increased dramatically and amphibian introductions but, with As a proportion of the Australia biota, Costs (mostly >$4 billion >$1 billion Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown very higher densities and he cautions against in Australia in recent decades. Once continued increases in international cargo agricultural) introduced species contribute the highest supposing they will not become common in confined to the Northern Territory, they can movement, it will take rigorous quarantine diversity to plants, constituting about 14% forests in future. now be found along the Queensland coast, inspection to prevent further species of known species. Introduced species also CRC for Australian Weed Management, Adelaide; Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research. In Guam, for example, they were originally in central Australia and in northern New establishing.’ (5) Navie, SC and Adkins, SW (2008) Environmental 38:481-501; (13) McNee, A. (2002). A national make up a large proportion, about 13%, of confined to urban areas but are now South Wales. Weeds of Australia. DVD-ROM. The University of approach to the management of exotic species in the References: Australia’s freshwater fish species. Queensland. aquarium trade: An inventory of exotic freshwater abundant in all forest types. On Christmas Hoskin admits these lizards are endearing Hoskin CJ. 2010. The invasion and potential impacts fish species. Canberra, Bureau of Rural Sciences; (14) West Australian weed officer Rod Randall, VERTEBRATES: (6) McLeod R. (2004) Counting the Island they can also be found in forest, many and entertaining. In urban areas they can be of the Asian House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) West P, Brown A and Hall K. (2007) Review of alien who maintains a global database of weeds, Cost: Impact of Invasive Animals in Australia 2004. miles from any buildings. enjoyed, he says, but in forested areas some Austral Ecology. has recorded more than 30,000 of the Cooperative Research Centre for Pest Animal Control, fish monitoring techniques, indicators and protocols: Canberra; (7) Tracey J, Bomford M, Hart Q, Saunders implications for national monitoring of Australia’s world’s plant species as having naturalised G and Sinclair R. (2007). Managing Bird Damage inland river systems. Invasive Animals Cooperative (established in the wild) somewhere on to Fruit and Other Horticultural Crops. Bureau of Research Centre, Canberra. Queensland organised as part of the ‘art of eco-friendly gardens’ at www.ilda. the planet. This constitutes about 8% of Rural Sciences, Canberra; (8) Bomford, M, Hart, Q. INVERTEBRATES: (15) Tasmanian Planning KEEPING IT BRIEF Queensland Pest Symposium in August com.au. It includes lists of recommended the world’s known flora (vascular plants), a (2005). Non-indigenous vertebrates in Australia. In Commission. (2003), State of the Environment Report: proved a fizzer. and to-be-avoided plants for a wide range testament to the mind-bogglingly extensive Pimental, D. (ed.), Biological Invasions: Economic Tasmania 2003, Tasmanian Planning Commission. Asian honeybee fight continues of situations and a list of nurseries selling and Environmental Cost of Alien Plant, Animal and http://soer.justice.tas.gov.au/2003/bio/4/issue/23/ The bus arrived to be met by the transportation of plants outside their natural Microbe Species. CRC Press, London; (9) Bomford index.php; (16) Greenslade, P. (1993) Threats from The Queensland battle to eradicate the manager admitting that all his deer had native plants. range in the ongoing McDonaldisation of the M, Hart Q. (2002) Non-indigenous vertebrates introduced invertebrates. Newsletter on biological Asian honeybee is proving very difficult, escaped – every single one. Australia’s wild CEO of the Invasive Animals CRC, world’s biota. in Australia. Biological Invasions – Economic and diversity conservation actions. Biolinks No. 4. with 173 nests now found in the greater deer population continues to be augmented Professor Tony Peacock, publishes an often Environmental Costs of Alien Plant, Animal and MARINE ORGANISMS: (17) CRC Reef Research Cairns region. by new escapes from deer farms. entertaining blog at www.feral.typepad. Sources Microbe Species. Pimental D (ed), CRC Press, New Centre. (n.d.) Introduced marine species. CRC Reef PLANTS: (1) Department of Agriculture, Fisheries York.; (10) Forsyth, D. M., R. P. Duncan, M. Bomford, Research Centre: Discover the reef, website, CRC Reef, Biosecurity Queensland is keeping up com. His use of social media to promote and Forestry (2009) Census of Cultivated Plants; (2) and G. Moore. (2004). Climatic suitability, life-history Townsville, Qld, www.reef.crc.org.au; (18) Hayes, K, the battle, with sniffer dogs deployed in the Websites to check out invasive species issues was one of the Downey, PO, Scanlon, TJ and Hosking, JR. (2010) traits, introduction effort, and the establishment Sliwa, C, Migus, S, McEnnulty, F, Dunstan, P. (2005), front line, but success is far from reasons he won the Eureka Prize for science and spread of introduced mammals in Australia. The Invasive Species Specialist Group Prioritising alien plant species based on their ability National Priority Pests: Part II ranking of Australian communication. to impact on biodiversity: a case study from New Conservation Biology 18:557-569; (11) Vertebrate Pest marine pests, Department of the Environment and guaranteed. features an ‘Invasive Species of the Week’ South Wales. Plant Protection Quarterly 25(3), Committee (2007) Australian Pest Animal Strategy – A Heritage, Canberra, & CSIRO Marine Research, Hobart. We will report more fully on this threat at www.issg.org/invasive_species_of_the_ national strategy for the management of vertebrate 111-126; (3) Randall R. (2007) The introduced flora AUSTRALIAN BIOTA: Chapman A. (2009). Numbers in the next issue of Feral Herald. week.htm. Invasive Species Council of Australia and its weed status. CRC for Australian pest animals in Australia. Department of the of Living Species in Australia and the World, 2nd ed. Weed Management, Adelaide, Australia: (4) Sinden J, Environment and Water Resources, Canberra. Report for the Australian Biological Resources Study. ISC member Gordon Rowland has For our reports and back issues of the Feral Jones R, Hester S, Odom D, Kalisch C, James R, Cacho FISH: (12) Lintermans, M. (2004). Human-assisted Canberra. Oh deer launched a new website focusing on the Herald, visit us at www.invasives.org.au. O. (2004) The economic impact of weeds in Australia, dispersal of alien freshwater fish in Australia. New A recent tour to a deer farm in Central

12 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 13 WARNING: Weeds are a danger to your health Carol Booth We suffer in many ways by what can be called ‘plant blindness.’ ISC Policy Officer That“ is, when we look at nature, we are more likely to recognize the diversity eeds can be characterised as of animals and only acknowledge plants as a sort of ‘green background.’ biological pollutants. This is Yet, that green background ... affects every aspect of our lives ... particularly apt for considering W – Ziska et al. 2009 the human health impacts of weed invasion. Exotic pollens contaminate the air for many because they are mostly wind-dispersed, the incidence of hay fever has dramatically asthma and hay fever sufferers, some in contrast to Australian species, which increased, and an estimated 10-20% of weeds are toxic, and aquatic weeds can are more often bird, mammal and insect- people suffer from it seasonally according destroy water quality. dispersed, and have less and heavier pollen, to Dykewicz (2010). Pollen is the most Some allergenic weeds causing respiratory or skin problems According to the Federal Government, which does not travel on the wind. common cause of seasonal rhinitis (in Family Allergenic species Family Allergenic species contrast to perennial rhinitis triggered by at least 23 common weeds present a About 80% of “serious” allergenic plants Amaranthaceae Fat hen (Chenopodium album) Plantaginaceae Ribwort (Plantago lanceolata) dust mites, pets and other factors). Many of serious respiratory or toxic risk to humans, in Australia are weeds, according to a Anacardiaceae Rhus tree (Toxicodendron succedaneum) Poaceae Ryegrass (Lolium perenne) especially children (www.weeds.gov.au/ summary of weed impacts by the Australian the plants known to trigger hay fever (eg. grasses, asthma weed, ribwort, privet) Asteraceae Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) weeds/why/impact.html) Academy of Science. Winter grass (Poa annua) are weeds in Australia. Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus) Although weeds are responsible for much Asthma: Sensitisation to pollen is an Sunflower Helianthus( anuus) Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum) illness and high medical costs, the health important risk factor in asthma and a trigger Noting the rising prevalence of allergic Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) Couch grass (Cynodon dactylon) diseases in tropical regions, a recent study Canary grass (Phalaris aquatica) hazards of weed invasion receive little focus for allergic asthmas. Studies in Melbourne Boraginaceae Paterson’s curse (Echium plantagineum) have found a high correlation between in Darwin (by Fay Johnston et al. 2009) Cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata) as reasons for better biosecurity. Better Cannabaceae Japanese hop (Humulus japonicus) Timothy grass (Phleum pratense) documentation of these human impacts seasonal asthma and counts of grass pollen, found a strong correlation between grass pollen counts and daily sales of medicine Euphorbiaceae Castor bean (Ricinus communis) Wild oat (Avena fatua) would add to the very strong environmental deriving from pastures north of Melbourne Mercury (Mercurialis annua) Yorkshire fog ( ) and agricultural reasons for much better (see Schappi et al 1998). Some of the for hay fever. The two dominant grasses Fagaceae English oak (Quercus robur) Ulmaceae Chinese elm (Celtis sinensis) weed management, but comprehensive invasive grasses produce large amounts were the invasive gamba grass (Andropogen Urticaceae Pellitory, asthma weed (Parietaria judaica) reviews on the topic are lacking. of pollen, and are very widespread (one gayensis) and the native sorghum Sarga( Lauraceae Camphor laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) hectare of ryegrass releases hundreds of species). Oleaceae Olive tree (Olea europaea) Sources: Australian Society for Clinical Immunology and Allergy; Marcos et al. 2001; kilograms of pollen per season, according The authors suggested that the invasive Privet (Ligustrum vulgare) Andersson and Lidholm, 2003; Gadermaier et al. 2004; Rodriguez et al. 2007; Taylor Weedy allergens et al. 2007; Salamanca 2010. to the Australian Society for Clinical grass-fire cycle (by which high biomass Pinaceae Radiata pine (Pinus radiata) Pollinosis is a serious public health problem Immunology and Allergy). invasive grasses such as gamba grass both Photo: VJ_FLick, http://www.flickr.com/photos/vj_flicks/ in Australia (and globally), and weed pollen promote and benefit from fire) could be is a common cause of allergic diseases, Pollen allergy has been found in 80-90% of childhood asthmatics and 40-50% of a health hazard, as well as a safety and ragweed in the US have found that warming can cause respiratory illness. S. 2009. Pollen loads and allergic rhinitis in Darwin, including asthma and allergic rhinitis and Australia: A potential health outcome of the grass-fire adult-onset asthmatics, although no causal ecological hazard. “The global spread of increases pollen production by 84% and The health impacts of weeds would add sinusitis. tropical grasses due to ongoing loss of CO cycle. EcoHealth, 6, 99-108. relationship between the allergic response 2 stimulates much greater production considerably to the more than $4 billion The incidence of allergic disease in tropical forests, introduced species, and Kemp AS, Mullins RJ, Weiner JM. 2006. The allergy and asthma has been clearly established, of pollen and may make the pollen more dollars annually that they cost agriculture. epidemic: what is the Australian response? Med J Australia is one of the highest in the world changing fire regimes could be contributing (see Taylor et al. 2007). In Melbourne, allergenic. In addition, higher CO2 levels may A comprehensive costing would add to the Aust185: 226–227. (see Kemp et al. 2006) and according to an asthma incidence in children almost to the increased burden of disease due to reduce the chemical efficacy of herbicides rationale for weed management. Marcos C, Rodriguez FJ, Luna I, Jato V, Gonzalez assessment commissioned by the Australian doubled from mid-1980s to mid-1990s to allergic rhinitis in these regions,” Johnston (see Ziska et al 2009; Ziska and Runion R. 2001. Pinus pollen aerobiology and clinical Society for Clinical Immunology and Allergy 27%, but then declined to 20% by 2002. In and co-authors conclude. 2007). References sensitization in northwest Spain. Annals of Allergy, cost $7.8 billion in 2007 (see Mullins et al. Andersson K, Lidholm J. 2003. Characteristics and Asthma & Immunology 87(1): 39-42. a suggestive coincidence remarked on by Other allergies: A review for the Other weed hazards: Many weeds 2007). immunobiology of grass pollen allergens. Int Arch Mullins RJ et al. 2007. The economic impact of allergic Taylor and coauthors, the decline occurred Australian Society for Clinical Immunology are poisonous, some extremely so. Tiny Allergy Immunol 130(2):87–107. disease in Australia: not to be sneezed at. ASCIA/ Four of the top 10 most common long when there was below average rainfall and Allergy noted that more than 2000 amounts of hemlock (Conium maculatum) Australian Academy of Science. nd. Weeds – the real Access Economics Report. URL: http://www.allergy. term self-reported illnesses in youth aged across the more populated regions of contact allergens have been identified, of and castor bean (Ricinus communis) can kill alien invaders. Nova Science in the News. org.au/content/view/324/76/. 12-24 years in Australia are allergic rhinitis south-eastern Australia resulting in reduced which plants, including dozens of weeds, people (ricin in castor bean is more potent Australian Society for Clinical Immunology and Rodriguez R, Villalba M, Batanero E, Palomares (hay fever – 14%), asthma (9%), chronic Allergy. URL: http://www.allergy.org.au/content/ O, Salamanca G. 2007. Emerging pollen allergens. atmospheric pollen and fungal counts. are among the most common. Dermatitis than cyanide). The spines or seeds of many Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy 61: 1-7. sinusitis (5%) and undefined allergy (3.5%). also often occurs on warm windy days, category/3/48/241/). Thunderstorms have often been linked weeds may cause physical injury. Many Bellomo R, Gigliotti P, Treloar A, Holmes P, Suphioglu. Salamanca G. et al. 2010. Pectin methylesterases of In 2005 there were more than 3 million to epidemics of asthma, especially when when wind-blown allergens come into weeds taint milk and meat. pollen tissue, a major allergen in olive tree. FEBS cases of allergic rhinitis, over 2 million D’Amato G, Liccardi G, Frenguelli G. 2007. grasses are flowering. In one documented contact with exposed skin. Aquatic weeds such as water hyacinth Thunderstorm allergy and pollen allergy. Allergy 62(1): Journal 277(13): 2729039. cases of asthma, and over 1 million cases of Schappi GF, Taylor PE, Kenrick J, Staff IA, Suphioglu case (by Gergis et al. 2000) a storm in About 10% of people with seasonal (Eichhornia crassipes) and cabomba 11-16. chronic sinusitis. Gadermaier G, Dedic A, Obermeyer G,Frank S, Himly C. 1998. Predicting the grass pollen count from Wagga Wagga in 1997 sent 215 asthmatics allergic rhinitis or conjunctivitis also have an (Cabomba caroliniana) can affect the quality meteorological data with regard to estimating Although the contribution of weeds to to emergency, 41 of whom required allergy to some foods due to proteins that M, Ferreira F. 2004. Biology of weed pollen allergens. of drinking water within water supply dams. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep ;4:391–400. the severity of hayfever symptoms in Melbourne this burden is unknown, it is substantial hospitalisation. During thunderstorms, are common to pollens and foods. Aquatic weeds, such as salvinia Salvinia( (Australia). Aerogiologia 14(1): 29-37. and the cost would be in the hundreds of Girgis ST, Marks GB, Downs SH, Kolbe A, Car GN, Paton there is a large increase in ruptured pollen Climate change and weed allergies: molesta), can also be safety hazards. Small R. 2000. Thunderstormassociated asthma in an inland Taylor PE, Jacobson KW, House JM, Glovsky MM. millions of dollars, if not billions. grains in the air (due to osmotic shock) and town in southeastern Australia. Who is at risk? Eur 2007. Links between pollen, atopy and the asthma Allergic weed hazards could get worse children have apparently drowned when epidemic. Arch Allergy Immunol 144:162–70. it is likely that storms wash pollen down to under climate change due to greater they thought a floating carpet of weeds was Respir J ;16:3–8. Hill DJ, Smart IJ, Knox RB. 1979. Childhood asthma and Ziska LH, Epstein PR, Schlesinger WH. 2009. Rising Blown by an ill wind a band of air at ground level (see Marks et weed abundance and growth, higher solid ground. CO2, climate change, and public health: exploring al. 2001). grass pollen aerobiology in Melbourne. Med J Aus. Plants from the Northern Hemisphere pollen production and reduced capacity Weeds such as high-biomass grasses 1:426–429. the links to plant biology. Environmental Health are more likely to have allergenic pollen Hay fever (allergic rhinitis): Worldwide, for weed control. Studies of western and gorse are fire hazards, and smoke Johnston, F. H., Hanigan, I. C., and Bowman, D. M. J. Perspectives 117(2): 155-59.

14 – Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 web: www.invasives.org.au | email: [email protected] Feral Herald, Issue 25, September 2010 – 15 Australia, a continent under threat

Australia has the worst animal extinction record in the world, due mainly to invasive species. With fire ants turning up in Brisbane, foxes in Tasmania, ongoing weed and disease spread, it could get worse. Australia needs a strong community voice to stop that happening. The Invasive Species Council is the main conservation group pressuring governments to do more about weeds, pests and wildlife diseases. Help make us stronger. With your support we can do more. – Tim Low, a founder of the Invasive Species Council

PS You can now donate online. Go to www.invasives.org.au Tim Low on Australia’s Macquarie Island, a and click on the DONATE link. World Heritage site now overrun by rabbits.

Invasive Species Council donation form Yes, I want to help protect Australia’s native plants and animals from weed, pest and disease invasions.

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WHERE TO SEND YOUR CHEQUE/MONEY ORDER Thank you for supporting the Invasive Species Council. Please send this form and a cheque or money order to: Invasive Species Council, PO Box 166, Fairfield, Vic 3078. Cheques and money orders should be made out to the “Invasive Species Council Inc”. We apologise for not having credit card facilities available at this time. Please email us, [email protected], if you would like to organise a bank transfer.

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