Illegal fungus release reveals Australia's battle with blackberry
Key Takeaways
- Fungus Phragmidium violaceum released illegally in 1983-84
- Goal was to eradicate invasive blackberry plants in Australia
- Event highlights decades-long biological control efforts
In the summer of 1983-84, the fungus Phragmidium violaceum was secretly and illegally introduced to Australia. The deliberate release aimed to combat the invasive spread of blackberry plants.
This covert action highlights the complex and controversial history of biological control methods used in the country over the past several decades.
Recommended for you
Tools and services we trust to boost productivity and content workflows.
Browse picks