A review of the ecology and control of thistles in Australia

Studies on the ecology and control of thistles in Australia, particularly those related to pasture improvement, are reviewed, and the results used to interpret increases and changes in thistle dominance. Several hypotheses, based on ecological differences in the thistles, their life cycles and changes in the soil/seed environment may explain the changing species incidence in the field, and it is postulated that, within a restricted group of competing thistle species, it may be more meaningful to interpret these ecological differences in terms of ‘tolerance of unfavourable conditions’ than in terms of ‘optimal requirements’. Alternative strategies for the control of thistles, including pasture competition, grazing management, the utilization of high soil fertility, and chemicals, are also assessed. It is re-emphasized that the aim of any long-term programme to control thistles, with or without the release of biological agents, should be the establishment and/or maintenance of a vigorous perennial pasture. The relative importance of different thistle species in Australian pastures and the ecology and dynamics of soil seed banks are identified as important areas for future thistle research.