The distribution of Carrichtera annua in Australia: Introduction, spread and probable limits

Date

2011

Authors

Cooke, Julia
Groves, R.H.
Ash, Julian

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Australian Rangeland Society

Abstract

Carrichtera annua (L.) DC. (Brassicaceae) or Ward's Weed, a major weed of semi-arid rangelands of southern Australia, has been collected widely since its introduction early in the 20th century. Collated records were used to suggest a single site of accidental introduction in South Australia, evidence of a lag phase of ∼30 years (probably due to edaphic restrictions) before rapid spread, involving infrequent long-distance human-aided dispersal across southern Australia and a relatively stable range since the 1960s. Climate and soil analyses suggest that abiotic factors limit the distribution of C. annua, with the species being restricted to areas with winter-dominated rainfall and calcareous soils. Documentation of the history of a successful invasion, including the spread and probable limits of the current distribution of a species, is important for managing invasions. This study also highlights that a single, accidental introduction can result in a long-lasting, widespread problematic weed.

Description

Keywords

Keywords: Brassicaceae; Carrichtera annua climate; exotic; invasive; Mediterranean; soil type; weed.

Citation

Source

The Rangeland Journal

Type

Journal article

Book Title

Entity type

Access Statement

License Rights

Restricted until

2037-12-31