Biocontrol introduction

Target pest: Acaena anserinifolia (Rosales: Rosaceae), piripiri

Agent introduced: Altica virescens (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

Imported:

1930

Import source:

Chile

Import notes:

Cameron et al. (1989) - a shipment of A. virescens eggs was received from Chile, probably in 1930, but the larvae which hatched did not survive. Tests in Chile subsequently showed that this species fed on plants other than Acaena spp. and so no further shipments were made.

Released:

Cameron et al. (1989) - not released.

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.

Miller, D. (1970). Biological control of weeds in New Zealand, 1927-1948. New Zealand Department of Scientific and Industrial Research information series 74. 104 pp.