Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Austrosimulium ungulatum (Diptera: Simuliidae), West Coast black fly

Agent introduced: Austroaeschna spp. (Odonata: Aeschnidae) = (possibly A. atrata Martin, A. inermis Martin, A. multipunctata Martin and A. unicornus unicornus Martin)

Imported: 1930, 1931

Import source: Canberra, and possibly Tasmania, Australia

Released: 1930, 1931

Release details: 88 larvae were released into the Maitai River, Nelson, in 1930, and possibly 50-100 released at Cass, Canterbury. In 1931 31 larvae were released into Poormans Valley Stream, Nelson and 70-90 released at Cass.

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.