|
Biological Control Insects |
| University of Florida | Aquatic and Wetland Plant Information Retrieval System |
Melaleuca is a tree that can grow in terrestrial and aquatic habitats. It was introduced into Florida from Australia. Having no natural "biological controls" in Florida, this tree is literally filling in the Everglades, having taken over hundreds of thousands of acres so far.
The first biocontrol insects against melaleuca in Florida were put to work in 1997, when melaleuca snout beetles, Oxyops vitiosa, were released from quarantine into the Everglades by USDA, University of Florida, and Army Corps of Engineers researchers. The scientists are closely examining the release sites; it may be some time before it is known whether or not the melaleuca snout beetles are proliferating.
In 2002, it is believed that the bugs, above, are gathering forces and making headway.
- Oxyops vitiosa, Melaleuca snout beetle, adult on melaleuca leaf
- Oxyops vitiosa, Melaleuca snout beetle, two adults feeting on melaleuca leaf
- Oxyops vitiosa, Melaleuca snout beetle, larva feeding on melaleuca leaf
- Oxyops vitiosa, Melaleuca snout beetle, larvae feeding on melaleuca leavesrong
- Oxyops vitiosa, Melaleuca snout beetle,
eggs on melaleuca leaves
- Oxyops vitiosa, Melaleuca snout beetle, Oxyops feeding damage on melaleuca leaves
CAIP-WEBSITE@ufl.edu
Copyright 1997 University of Florida
