Biology and host specificity of the chromolaena stem gall fly, Cecidochares connexa (Macquart) (Diptera: Tephritidae) |
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| Authors: | Rachel E Cruttwell McFadyen Roch Desmier de Chenon A Sipayung |
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| Affiliation: | Department of Natural Resources and Mines, PO Box 36, Sherwood, Qld 4075, Australia.;IOPRI, Marihat Research Station, P. Siantar, Sumatera Utara, Indonesia. |
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| Abstract: | Abstract The stem-galling tephritid fly Cecidochares connexa (Macquart) was investigated as a potential biocontrol agent against the weed Chromolaena odorata (L) King & Robinson in Indonesia. Adults were tested in choice and no-choice tests, on 55 non-target plant species in 17 families. No oviposition was recorded on 53 of the species, while oviposition but no larval development was recorded on two. Field releases commenced in 1995 and establishment was immediate. The gall fly is now widely established in most Indonesian provinces, where gall parasitism and predation is generally low. |
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| Keywords: | Asteraceae biological control Chromolaena odorata weed parasitism |
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