Presentation Transcript

Classical Biological Control of Alligator-Weed Future Prospects Mic Julien CSIRO Entomology However, they are not effective in controlling alligator-weed in terrestrial habitats and cooler climates. Therefore, our goal is to identify and introduce safe and effective herbivores for the sustainable control of alligator-weed in terrestrial habitats and cool climates in Australia. Current Status Agasicles hygrophila Arcola malloi The two previously introduced agents have been effective in controlling alligator-weed in aquatic habitats and warm climates. Native range surveys To find safe and effective agents we are: Conducting surveys for host specific herbivores in the native range Studying where our specific variety of alligator-weed is from using genetic analyses Examining why no seeds are produced in Australia. (pollination or hybrid infertility) Native range surveys Disonycha argentinensis Amynothrips andersoni Systena spp. Native range surveys Ophiomyia alternantherae Clinodiplosis alternantherae Native range surveys Native range surveys Also pathogens Genetic Analysis Host specificity Native Amaranthaceae in greenhouse for initial host specificity trials Seed production Pollination experiments (Human Karyotype) Karyotype analysis Questions