Caltrop weed infestation
Recent rains have stimulated germination of the weed caltrop. Caltrop (Tribulus terrestris) is not widely spread on the island, but Natural Resources Kangaroo Island (NRKI) staff need the community’s help by reporting sightings and controlling infestations.
Recent rains have stimulated germination of the weed caltrop.
Caltrop (Tribulus terrestris) is not widely spread on the island, but Natural Resources Kangaroo Island (NRKI) staff need the community’s help by reporting sightings and controlling infestations.
Caltrop is a declared South Australian weed and landholders must control infestations found on private land.
Germination occurs over warmer months providing there is available soil moisture.
NRKI Pest Plant Control Officer Jason Walter said that caltrop has very spiny seed capsules often spread by vehicles and machinery and capable of puncturing tyres.
“You can help protect local industries and keep sports fields and public places free of this unwanted prickly invader,” Mr Walter said.
“Pay particular attention to bare areas like gravel car parks, footpaths, sheep yards and vineyards.”
Mr Walter said there’ve been increasing infestations around Penneshaw in the past three years and NRKI staff had been working with Council to control these.
“We have also received reports of caltrop in lupins brought to the island to feed stock,” he said.
“Landholders purchasing off-island products should understand this risk and develop a feeding program that supports monitoring.”
Please report all suspicious plants to NRKI by calling 8553 4444 for more info http://www.landscape.sa.gov.au/ki/plants-and-animals/pest-plants-and-animals/pest-plants
