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Biocontrol of Chromolaena odorata in Timor Leste

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Day, M. D., Brito, A. A., Da Costa Guterres, A., da Costa Alves, A. P., Paul, T. and Wilson, C. G. (2013) Biocontrol of Chromolaena odorata in Timor Leste. In: Proceedings of the Eighth International Workshop on Biological Control and Management of Chromolaena odorata and other Eupatorieae, Nairobi, Kenya, 1-2 November 2010. ARC-PRPRI, Pretoria.

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Abstract

Chromolaena odorata (L.) King and Robinson (Asteraceae) is a major weed in Timor Leste, affecting grazing lands and subsistence farms, reducing productivity and food security. It was the focus of a biocontrol project funded by the Australian Government from 2005-2009. During this period, the gall fly Cecidochares connexa (Macquart) (Diptera: Tephritidae) was introduced from Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, where it is widespread. From these initial releases, the gall fly established at seven sites and was subsequently re-distributed to most areas in Timor Leste where chromolaena was a problem. It established at most of the release sites that were revisited and caused a visible reduction in plant density and height. Overall, control of chromolaena by the gall fly in Timor Leste is limited by the severe dry season and the widespread use of fire in clearing lands for agriculture, both of which reduce the ability of gall fly populations to persist at damaging levels. Thus additional agents that can tolerate prolonged dry periods are required to increase the level of control of chromolaena.

Item Type:Book Section
Business groups:Biosecurity Queensland
Subjects:Science > Invasive Species > Plants > Biological control
Live Archive:12 Dec 2013 01:46
Last Modified:03 Sep 2021 16:49

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