Observations on the biology and host specificity ofEpiblema strenuana [Lepidoptera,Tortricidae], a potential biocontrol agent forParthenium hysterophorus [Compositae]

The tortricid mothEpiblema strenuana (Walker), which attacksAmbrosia spp. over most of North America, is shown to have the annual weedParthenium hysterophorus L. Compositae] as its main host in northern Mexico. The larvae produce galls in the stems and growing-points which can considerably stunt growth when young plants are attacked. In tests it was shown to have a restricted host-range and not to damage any composite of economic importance. Its release in Australia for trial as a biological control agent againstP. hysterophorus has been approved.