Weeds in Australia

Publications and resources

Mesquite (Prosopis species) weed management guide

Weeds of National Significance
Department of the Environment and Heritage and the CRC for Australian Weed Management, 2003
ISBN 1 9209 3209 7

PDF file

About the guide

Mesquite is a Weed of National Significance. It is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of its invasiveness, potential for spread, and economic and environmental impacts. There are four species and several hybrids of Prosopis, which are all collectively known as mesquite.

Mesquite's economic impacts stem from its habit of forming dense, impenetrable thickets which, combined with its large thorns, prevent stock accessing watering holes and make mustering difficult. Mesquite also reduces the productivity of pastoral country by taking over grasslands and using valuable water resources. Other nuisances from mesquite include damage to animal hooves and vehicle tyres from thorns, and the poisoning of livestock which consume excessive amounts of seed pods.

Environmental impacts include land erosion resulting from the loss of grassland habitat that supports native plants and animals; and the provision of safe refuges for feral animals such as pigs and cats.

Contact details

Nathan March
National Coordinator Prickle Bushes
Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation
PO Box 53, Cloncurry, Queensland 4824
Phone: (07) 4742 1311 Fax: (07) 4742 1899 Mobile: 0427 603 328
nathan.march@deedi.qld.gov.au

Coverage
Extent in Australia Potential distribution
WA, NT, QLD, NSW, VIC, SA Could further expand in current locations
Cover of Mesquite (Prosopis species) - Weeds of National Significance - Weed Management Guide

See also

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