Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Eriococcus coriaceus (Hemiptera: Eriococcidae), gum tree scale

Agent introduced: Stathmopoda melanochra (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae)

Imported:

1932, 1933

Import source:

Australia

Import notes:

Cameron et al. (1989) - in 1932 and 1933 more than 100 S. melanochra adults were imported from Australia in two shipments.

Released:

1932

Release details:

Cameron et al. (1989) - imported adults were released in Nelson, South Island: six in 1932 and 91 in 1933.

Establishment:

Cameron et al. (1989) - Stathmopoda melanochra has become established in Nelson and Christchurch in the South Island, and Hawke's Bay and Manawatu in the North Island.

Impacts on target:

Cameron et al. (1989) - Stathmopoda melanochra is never abundant enough to exert any control on E. coriaceus.

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.