Search the SPREP Catalogue

Vatthe the largest Conservation Area, and the most extensive lowland alluvial forest left in Vanuatu, is under threat from an invasive vine, big leaf (Merremia peltata), which is causing the death of large numbers of canopy trees.

Wedelia, creeping oxeye, or the trailing daisy, a deceptively beautiful, bright emerald-green creeper with bright yellow daisy-like flowers, is one of the world's most aggressive weeds and is listed among these other destructive organisms as one of the worlds 1000 worst invasive alien species. IT is now firmly established in Melanesia and throughout the Pacific islands. It is suggested that it should be immediately declared a serious noxious weed, should be restricted from introduction into new islands and habitats, and, where possible, eradicated from islands, habitats and places where it is yet to gain a firm foothold.

The role and nature of Tara taranaki are described. Its links to other species are considered; and the possible effects of possums on the species is discussed. It is likely that 1080 poison is highly toxic to amphipods, but no matter how poisonous it is to Tara taranaki, its use is likely to be far less damaging in the long term to this species than are the effects of an uncontrolled possum population.