Invasive species and pathogens pressure on the Wet Tropics of Queensland
Key Finding
The introduction and spread of invasive species and pathogens throughout the Wet Tropics bioregion is increasing more rapidly than can be managed through existing programs for their removal.
A small number of newly-emerging weed species are of extreme management concern:
- Miconia (Miconia calvescens, M. racemosa and M. nervosa)
- Mikania (Mikania micrantha)
- Limnocharis (Limnocharis flava)
- Koster’s curse (Clidemia hirta)
- Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata).
The soil-borne water mould (Phytophthora cinnamomi) also threatens hundreds of endemic species and tilapia are invading rivers and water bodies.
Chytrid fungus (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) has caused severe population declines in 8 species of frogs in the Wet Tropics.
- These locally endemic, rainforest stream-dwelling frog species, once found widely and in high numbers throughout the Wet Tropics, have vanished from altitudes above 300 metres.
The yellow crazy ant has become established in several locations within, and immediately adjacent to, the Area.
- Yellow crazy ants are general omnivorous feeders with versatile nesting habits.
- These traits enable yellow crazy ants to locate suitable food and nesting sites within any area that they invade.
- They can build up high densities, form super-colonies, and become the most common consumer over large areas, both on the ground and in the forest canopy, disrupting and transforming ecosystems.
Mammalian pests such as pigs continue to have a significant impact on natural soil, vegetation and aquatic values and also pose biosecurity risks.
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