Dr Bruce Webber is seeking some assistance with a weed project that the CSIRO is running on stinking passionflower (Passiflora foetida).  The research program is looking to improve control options for stinking passionflower with the view to developing a biological control solution. 

The CSIRO is at a stage of the project where it will be essential to have fresh ripe fruit and leaf samples from as much of the Australian range as possible.  They suspect that the timing for fruit collection may be ideal over the coming weeks.

If you or your volunteers might be able to help with the collection of ripe fruit and leaves from plants your area, we would greatly appreciate hearing from you.  Alternatively, if you have contacts who might be able to collect for them, please don’t hesitate to pass on this information or send their contact details to Bruce. 

The CSIRO will provide a clear and simple sampling protocol for anyone interested in collecting samples (it is a very simple quick procedure).  The CSIRO will be able to provide all materials for collecting and cover all costs associated with the shipping of any samples.  Please contact Mick Davy (michael.davy@csiro.au / 08 9333 6104) or Bruce Webber (bruce.webber@csiro.au / 08 8333 6802 if you have any questions or would like further information.

Submitted by Bruce Webber, CSIRO