Project Number: 5325-22000-020-15
Project Type: Specific C/A

Start Date: Jul 07, 2004
End Date: Feb 28, 2008

Objective:
Yellow starthistle is an important invasive weed in the western U.S. that originated from the Mediterranean. By studying the plant and its natural enemies in Turkey, we can discover ways to control the weed in the U.S. We will study causes of plant mortality in the field and identify the most promising biological control agents. These will be further evaluated to determine if they are safe and effective.

Approach:
Seasonal changes in plant density will be studied at three field sites to determine changes in recruitment and mortality of yellow starthistle. Data on annual seed production and soil seed bank will be collected. Yellow starthistle plants will be sampled regularly through the year to collect and identify arthropods and pathogens. Those that appear promising will be further evaluated by sampling other nontarget plant species in field to see if they are also attacked. Documents SCA with Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey. Formerly 5325-22000-017-28S (6/05).