Laboratory life history and field observations of Poliopaschia lithochlora (Lower) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a potential biological control agent for Melaleuca quinquenervia (Myrtaceae)

Abstract  Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T. Blake, Australian broad-leaved paperbark, has become a serious weed in southern Florida. Poliopaschia lithochlora (Lower) is a promising candidate as a potential biological control agent, and this study describes laboratory and field observations of the life history of this moth. Eggs are laid in small batches, mainly on the surface of leaves, and larvae are voracious leaf feeders, concealed in tubes that are usually found in small colonies attached to leaves and stems. Larvae move from these tubes to feed on surrounding leaves, and saplings and suckers are frequently defoliated. Prepupae form sealed bulbs in the larval tubes in which they pupate. Adult females are mainly active and oviposit at night. Development from egg to adult occurs in approximately 80 d. Field populations appear to be regulated by several egg and larval parasites. Because this moth severely damages saplings and suckers of M .  quinquenervia , prefers low-lying humid sites, and can be successfully mass reared, it is rated highly for its potential as a biological control agent.