Progress towards the eradication of Limnocharis flava from Australia

Abstract

Limnocharis flava (Limnocharis) is an anchored aquatic weed preferring shallow silty tropical habitats. Limnocharis flava was discovered near Kuranda in north Queensland in 2001 and included in the nationally cost-shared National Tropical Weeds Eradication Program when it commenced in late 2003. Small and cultivated L. flava loci have been discovered between Cape Tribulation and Townsville, particularly around the greater Cairns area. In 2021, L. flava was discovered in the Northern Territory as well as in in southeast Queensland. The cultivation of this invasive plant as a garden ornamental or as a vegetable, increases the risk of populations established beyond the current known extent.