Here in our beautiful bush capital lurking just on the surface, alligators have been detected in our waterways. Not the reptilian variety but something more sinister, a species so menacing it threatens our aquatic ecosystems.
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Originating from South America, alligator weed is a highly aggressive noxious plant with remarkable invasive capabilities. Alligator weed rapidly colonises, invading our precious lakes, waterways, wetlands and floodplains.
Recent infestations of this exotic weed have been identified and treated in our local creeks, lakes and gardens. Highlighting the interconnectivity of our stormwater drain network, it is suspected alligator weed has been spread by plant material from gardens and washed down our drains. This reinforces the key message that only rain should go down the stormwater drain.
As an invasive species alligator weed has the potential to completely dominate the surface of the water – choking our water bodies and preventing their use by birds and other wildlife. It affects fish and many other aquatic species, including native plants. Alligator weed severely depletes oxygen levels and restricts sunlight penetration.
A new management plan has been prepared to guide the eradication of alligator weed from our region. The ACT Alligator Weed Management Plan is a joint effort between the ACT Government and National Capital Authority addressing the ecological threat posed. The 10-year plan is a commitment to initially contain and ultimately eradicate alligator weed.
You can play a vital role in this control effort by identifying Alligator weed; be it in your garden, invading public land or for sale at various markets.
Often alligator weed is mistaken for the Asian vegetable plant, mukunuwenna. The best way to tell the difference is by the flowers. alligator weed flowers are at least 10mm wide and are found on short, hollow, reddish coloured stalks, while mukunuwenna flowers are less than 5mm wide and found in clusters, where the leaf joins the stem.
Health experts have warned prolonged consumption of alligator weed poses a health risk. It should not be consumed, transported or grown anywhere in Australia.
If you have seen alligator weed or have it growing in your garden, simply send a photograph to Fix My Street at www.act.gov.au/fixmystreet. Alternatively, you can report any sightings to Access Canberra on 13 22 81. A weeds officer will confirm its identity and control it free of charge to residents.
