Erigeron bonariensis, also known as Argentine fleabane, is an annual herb native to South America. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and is considered an invasive species. Studies have found that E. bonariensis grows abundantly in the country's urban areas, roadsides, and disturbed habitats, often forming dense stands. It can thrive in a variety of conditions, including high temperatures and saline soils, making it well-suited to Qatar's arid environment. The plant's presence in Qatar has been documented in various regions, including Doha and the surrounding areas, where it can outcompete native vegetation and potentially disrupt local ecosystems.
Flower buds of Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from Education City. Doha, Qatar, March 17, 2014
Plant of Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from Education City. Doha, Qatar, March 17, 2014
Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from area of Dunes Hotel in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, May 10, 2014
Flowers of Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from area of Dunes Hotel in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, May 10, 2014
Close up of Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from area of Dunes Hotel in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, May 10, 2014
Flowers of Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from Meshrif Street near West Bay. Doha, Qatar, May 11, 2014
Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) found near Ezdan Hotel in West Bay. Doha, Qatar, August 23, 2014
Dry seeds of fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. South-western Qatar, October 25, 2014
Caterpillar feeding on flowers of fleabane daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. South-western Qatar, November 15, 2014
Yellow and black caterpillar feeding on flowers of fleabane daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. South-western Qatar, November 15, 2014
Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) with flowers in a silty depression in Al Nuaman (Al Numan) near Zubara. Northern Qatar, January 8, 2015
Fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) with fluffy seeds in a silty depression in Al Nuaman (Al Numan) near Zubara. Northern Qatar, January 8, 2015
Flowers of fleabane Daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) taken from a silty depression in Al Nuaman (Al Numan) near Zubara. Northern Qatar, January 8, 2015
Seed heads of fleabane daisy (Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza bonariensis) on a field on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, April 10, 2015
AI-generated summary of observations
Observations of Erigeron bonariensis in Qatar show that the plant grows in various locations, including Education City, West Bay, and Irkhaya Farms. It produces flower buds in March and flowers in May, with seeds forming later in the year. The plant can be found in different environments, such as silty depressions and areas with center-pivot irrigation. Caterpillars were observed feeding on the flowers of the plant in November. The seeds of the plant are fluffy and dry, and can be seen in January. The plant continues to produce seed heads throughout the year, with observations recorded in April. Overall, Erigeron bonariensis appears to be a widespread and adaptable species in Qatar, able to thrive in different conditions. Its growth and development patterns were observed over several months.