This project is divided in 7 tasks that aims to continue the studies of the processes of biological invasion by Acacia longifolia, started in 2002 (INVADER, POCTI/BSE/42335/2001). It will give special emphasis to studies related with biological control, with the agent Trichilogaster acaciaelongifoliae, methodology something innovative in the context of the control of invasive species in Portugal.

Task 1. Long-term monitoring of invaded ecosystems by Acacia longifolia recovery at the floristic and soil level

Task 2. Testing Acacia longifolia biological control

Task 3. Spatial and temporal patterns of Acacia longifolia seeds dispersal, viability and seed bank dynamics

Task 4. Feedback between soil and Acacia longifolia invasion

Task 5. Genetic variability within Acacia longifolia - their implications on biocontrol agents' acceptability

Task 6. Public awareness and environmental education

Task 7. Monitoting the biocontrol agent, post-releasing