Summary of current research and management recommendations
Our study has largely focused on coastal ecosystems and the impact of bitou bush (Chrysanthemoides monilifera). We have investigated the effect of invasion on various faunal groups and determined how bitou bush influences ecosystem processes such as seed dispersal and litter decomposition. We are beginning to investigate the process of invasion and how different plant species are affected. We have determined the species that become locally extinct early in invasion and are assessing the role and direction of rehabilitation activities in weed infested areas. We are also investigating how plants are affected by weeds by determining reproductive output and plant stress in species co-occurring with weeds. This work is leading into investigating changes in plant communities and invasion potential under climate change.
Our new research is also investigating the impact of Salvinia, an aquatic weed, on native aquatic plants. Trials are investigating how to maximize the impact of the weevil released as a biocontrol agent in temperate waterways.
Mason T. J., French K. and Russell K.G. (2007). Moderate impacts of plant invasion and management regimes in coastal hind dune seed banks. Biological Conservation 134: 428-439.
Mason T. J., French K. (2007) Management regimes for a plant invader differentially impact resident communities. Biological Conservation 136, 246-259.
Gosper, C, Whelan, RJ and French, K. (2006) The effect of invasive plant management on the rate of removal of vertebrate-dispersed fruits. Plant Ecology 184, 351-363
Lindsay E.A. and French K. (2006) Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. rotundata invasion alters coastal leaf litter invertebrates. Biological Invasions 8(2), 177-92.
Mason, T, Lonsdale, WM, French, K. (2005) Environmental weed control policy in Australia: current approaches, policy limitations and future directions. Pacific Conservation Biology 11(4), 23-45.
Lindsay E.A. and French K. (2005) Litterfall and nitrogen cycling following invasion by Chrysanthemoides monilifera spp. rotundata' J. Appl. Ecol. 42, 556-566.
Lindsay E.A. and French K. (2005) The Litterfall and nitrogen cycling following invasion by Chrysanthemoides monilifera spp. rotundata. J. Appl. Ecol, 42, 556-566
Lindsay E.A and French K. (2004) Chrysanthemoides monilifera ssp. rotundata invasion alters decomposition rates in coastal areas of New South Wales, Australia. Forest Ecology and Management 198, 387-99.
Other Kris French Research Pages:
Urban Ecology
Forest Ecology
Endangered Species
