Applying a simulation model to the management of an infestation of Miconia calvescens in the wet tropics of Australia

A simulation model reveals that the eradication program for Miconia calvescens in the Wet Tropics of Queensland, Australia, has significantly reduced but not fully eliminated the invasive plant population. Despite control efforts, undetected mature plants likely persist at the site. The study demonstrates that increasing search effort and maintaining long-term funding could achieve eradication within decades without substantially impacting costs. This approach integrates biological data, search strategies, and economic analysis to optimize management outcomes.

HESTER, S. M., BROOKS, S. J., CACHO, O. J., & PANETTA, F. D. (2010). Applying a simulation model to the management of an infestation of Miconia calvescens in the wet tropics of Australia. Weed Research, 50(3), 269–279. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3180.2010.00778.x