Biocontrol introduction

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

Agent introduced: Scarites politus (Coleoptera: Carabidae)

Imported: 1977-1978

Import source: South Africa

Released: 1977 and 1978

Release details: 40 adults (a mixture of S. politus and S. rigiceps) were released at Woodhill, Auckland. 32 adults (again a mixture of S. politus and S. rigiceps) were released at Woodhill and 40 (both species) released at Ruakaka, Northland in 1978.

Establishment: 9 Scarites sp larvae recovered in 1978 and 1 in 1979. Establishment is uncertain

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.