Chemical control is possible but is too expensive to control all infestations over such large areas. Biological control is feasible and the search for natural control agents is on-going. This is achieved through collaborative research and technology exchange and concerns the topics of biology and ecology and biocontrol. An additional component is looking at ways of transferring the knowledge generated into the agricultural community. Process-based simulation models and geographical information systems are used to monitor and predict future spread.
Biological control is developed and enhanced through the use of plant feeding insects and pathogens.
The CTPM provides the framework and some financial assistance for the co-ordination and integration of these studies on parthenium weed. In Queensland, parthenium weed commonly dominates cultivated and other disturbed areas, in addition to flood-prone pastures. The presence of parthenium in cropped lands can almost double cultivation costs and restrict the sale and movement of contaminated produce. The biology of Australian weeds. Parthenium hysterophorus L. Plant Prot.