Aquatic Plant Control Research Program. Biological Control of Waterhyacinth in the California Delta
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to transfer biocontrol technology developed for waterhyacinth control in the southeastern states to agencies responsible for waterhyacinth control in California. This technology centers on the use of three South American insect species (Neochetina bruchi Hustache and Neochetina eichhorniae Warner (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Sameodes albiguttalis Warren (Lepidoptera:Pyralidae)) which effect natural control of waterhyacinth in its native range. The technology transfer consisted of (a) releasing the biocontrol agents at specific sites in California, (b) monitoring the establishment of these agents, (c) evaluating the control effectiveness by these agents, and (d) monitoring the natural dispersion by these agents. Neochetina bruchi was first released in the Delta in July 1982; N. eichhorniae in April 1983; and S. albiguttalis in August 1983. Release efforts consisted of the following: N. bruchi and S. albiguttalis at the Old River Site; N. eichhorniae and S. albiguttalis at the White Slough Site; all three species at the Trapper Slough and Veale Tract sites. This release scenario was used to determine the effectiveness of different combinations of the biocontrol agents.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA198024
Entities
People
- Alfred F. Cofrancesco Jr.
- Larry G. Bezark
- R. M. Stewart