The culture of weeds: Invasion biology, identity and aesthetics in Australia

A weed is usually defined as a plant out of place. Here we extend the idea of weediness to other biota and whole landscapes. We first consider the history of garden aesthetics as a major driver of deliberate plant introductions (94%). Secondly we examine the biota that accompanied European settlement, supporting the colonial project (ecological imperialism). Pasture grasses and stock worked as foot soldiers of empire, often ahead of the human settler frontier. Because of long continental isolation, Invasion Biology is a key science in Australia. Part 3, Fear of Ferals focuses on how science and historical ideas of nature shape ecology, aesthetics and identity, and Australia's role in global biodiversity management.