Fed: Qld university discovering natural herbicides

AAP General News (Australia)
08-31-2000
Fed: Qld university discovering natural herbicides

CANBERRA, Aug 31 AAP - A snorkelling trip on the Great Barrier Reef could lead to the
discovery of natural herbicides that target some of the world's worst weeds.

James Cook University professor of biochemistry and molecular biology Jim Burnell was
on the reef a few years ago when he noticed the total absence of free growing plants.

Further research by Professor Burnell and his team has revealed a range of enzymes
released by coral that prevents the growth of normal plant life.

Now that observation is being taken up by the university, the Australian Institute
of Marine Science and chemical company Nufarm Ltd to develop the natural herbicides.

Professor Burnell said the chances of finding an environmentally safe, weed-specific
herbicide were high.

"The theory might be wrong, but we've proven that there are compounds secreted by these
coral, which selectively kill plants," he said.

"And they must be safe to the environment because we eat the fish which eat organisms
on the reef."

The compounds target weeds known as the C4 group which include problem tropical plants
such as nut grass and Johnson grass.

About 40 enzymes have been found from more than 5,000 that have herbicide-like qualities.

Five of these are viewed as having high potential.

Nufarm managing director Doug Rathbone said the research was an exciting opportunity
to develop a new class of herbicides that would help millions of farmers worldwide.

"Some 10 per cent to 15 per cent of the global cost of weed control is attributable
to C4 weeds," he said.

"These weeds have the ability to outcompete many crops and cause significant damage,
especially in warmer climates where they thrive."

Nufarm has put about $30,000 towards research already, and will spend another $2 million
during the next three years.

The university's pro vice-chancellor (research and internationals) Professor Norman
Palmer said it could take up to 10 years to come up with a commercial application.

"But that initial discovery is very important and now gives us the chance to develop
something of great importance," he said.

AAP sw/mfh/hu

KEYWORD: WEEDS

2000 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.