Aspects of the ecology and control of Euphorbia paralias L. (Sea Spurge) in the Otway National Park, Victoria, Australia.

Euphorbia paralias L. (Sea Spurge) is a coastal dune plant native to the Mediterranean region. It was first recorded in Australia in 1927, and is now widespread on coastal dunes in southern Australia. Environmental weed invasions by species such as E. paralias are believed to have a significant influence on ecological processes by altering landform morphology, reducing floral and structural diversity, and degrading fauna habitat. The distribution of E. paralias within the Otway National Park was mapped, and species associations and other variables were used to derive habitat preferences. A field trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of hand removal of plants and the application of the herbicide 2,4-D ester. E. paralias was recorded in disjunct populations on embryonic sand dunes, most commonly in association with Ammophila arenaria L. (Link) (Marram Grass) and within 10 m of the high tide mark. Hand removal of plants and the application of 2,4-D ester were both effective in reducing populations of E. paralias.