Invasion of bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) in a remnant vegetation patch: methodology and initial results

摘要

The invasion process of Asparagus asparagoides (L.) W.Wight (bridal creeper) is described in relation to bird dispersal on Phillip Island, Victoria. Cover and abundance were visually assessed and the data were presented in a geographic information system. This showed that the distribution of A. asparagoides within a remnant vegetation patch was not random. It appears to have entered the reserve from two boundaries, spreading toward the centre, which to date remains sparsely colonised despite the capacity of this weed to spread rapidly over long distances by birds. The initial dispersal appears to have been predominantly along the tracks within the reserve. Possible explanations of the inferred invasion history and the implications for weed management are discussed.