Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Heteronychus arator (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), black beetle

Agent introduced: Microphthalma europaea (Diptera: Tachinidae)

Imported: 1967 and 1969

Import source: La Minière par Versailles, France

Released: 1967

Release details: In 1967, 3,132 adult flies were released at Opotiki and 2,331 at Te Kaha, Eastern Bay of Plenty. The 1969 importation was used in rearing experiments investigating scarabaeids as potential hosts.

Establishment: Not recovered

References

Cameron PJ, Hill RL, Bain J, Thomas WP (1989). A Review of Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests and Weeds in New Zealand 1874-1987. Technical Communication No 10. CAB International Institute of Biological Control. DSIR Entomology Division. 424p.