Control to eradication of Tradescantia fluminensis on Stephens Island (Takapourewa): the importance of systematic and persistent effort

Abstract

This case study describes control to eradication of tradescantia (Tradescantia fluminensis, wandering jew) on Stephens Island (Takapourewa), Cook Strait. Control commenced in 1990 and most tradescantia was removed by May 1992, leaving only small isolated patches. Island caretakers attempted to control tradescantia along with their other tasks for the next 10 years. Tradescantia abundance increased over this period. Not until 2003 was the eradication goal made clear and a dedicated weed team assigned to implement it. Eradication of tradescantia from Stephens Island now appears imminent but remains elusive, with two small plant fragments having been found in the last 5 years. We discuss factors important to achieving eradication and suggest that systematic and persistent effort by highly motivated and dedicated people is critical to eradication success.