QLD: Scientists wonder why there s no weeds on the ocean floor

AAP General News (Australia)
01-20-2000
QLD: Scientists wonder why there s no weeds on the ocean floor

BRISBANE, Jan 20 AAP - A mysterious marine chemical that stops plants growing on the
ocean floor may one day stop weeds choking gardens, waterways and national parks.

Australian Institute of Marine Science researcher Lyndon Llewellyn and molecular scientist
Jim Burnell believe a herbicide can be developed from the natural chemical found in the
sea.

Dr Llewellyn said today the idea stemmed from observations that many areas of the Great
Barrier Reef sea floor were not covered by free growing plants.

Weeds cost Australia …