Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Wiseana spp. (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae), porina

Agent introduced: Pterostichus unistriatus (Coleoptera: Carabidae) = Trirammatus unistriatus

Imported:

1968-70

Import source:

Argentina

Import notes:

Cameron et al. (1989) - searches in western Argentina for natural enemies of Wiseana spp. [a hepialid moth genus endemic to New Zealand] found Carabidae, particularly P. unistriatus occurred in hepialid populations and were active against larvae in laboratory tests. Eight hundred and twenty-one P. unistriatus were imported for release against New Zealand grass grub (Costelytra giveni [see the introduction entry for this species]) from Argentina between 1968 and 1970 and larvae were obtained in laboratory rearing.

Release details:

Cameron et al. (1989) - five hundred and eighty-seven of the imported P. unistriatus [see Cameron et al. (1989) entry in ‘Import notes’ section above] were released in the Nelson region of the South Island.

Establishment:

Cameron et al. (1989) - surveys for over a year after releases did not recover any P. unistriatis.

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.