Comparative biology of two forms of an invasive vine, Dolichandra unguis-cati (L.) Lohmann (Bignoniaceae): implications for weed spread and biocontrol

摘要

This thesis is a comparative study of two distinct forms ('long pod' and 'short pod') of an invasive vine, cat’s claw creeper. The two forms have differing prevalence rates in Australia. The thesis examines important plant traits that could explain this variation in prevalence between the forms. The thesis covers seed biology, anatomical and growth traits, together with physiological traits in response to two levels of light, water and nutrients resources. In addition, the study assesses preferences of two bio-agents (insects) against the two forms of cat’s claw creeper to ascertain bio-control efficacy. This is because in Australia, the same insects are used to control both forms. The outcome of the study is a prospectus of traits that help explain why the short pod form is more widespread than the long pod form. Short pod possesses many of the traits that are associated with fast growing plants that easily colonize habitats. Generally, insects feed and lay eggs on both forms.