Community
8 July, 2021
South American Noxious Invader
North Queensland residents are urged to report any sign of the exotic weed limnocharis, which has been found growing from north of Mossman down to the South East Queensland area.
Biosecurity Queensland’s Engagement Officer Kim Badcock said limnocharis was a highly invasive aquatic plant from South America.
“It was first found here 20 years ago and we need to eradicate this serious pest before it becomes permanently established,” he said.
“Limnocharis rapidly takes over waterways. It grows densely along the water’s edge to about one metre in height with pale green oval shaped leaves at the end of long triangular stems, and yellow flowers about the size of a 50 cent piece.
“The spread of this plant is partly due to people cultivating it as a vegetable, but you must not grow, sell, or keep limnocharis or you risk being fined.
“It may look nice, but it’s an invader that chokes waterways and pushes out native species causing all sorts of environmental and agricultural problems.
“Keep an eye out for it in ornamental ponds, dams, creeks, swamps, drains, backyards and being sold online, and immediately report anything suspicious to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.”
For more information call 13 25 23 or visitwww.biosecurity.qld.gov.au
