Pacific Pests, Pathogens and Weeds

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Summary

• Probably widespread through introduction. A beetle used in biocontrol of Sida, e.g., Sida acuta and Sida rhombifolia (common wireweed & Paddy's lucerne) causing severe defoliation.  
• Native of Mexico. Introduced into Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu. Present in New Caledonia.
Eggs laid on Sida, larvae remain together until last moult, adults brown then bright green with black markings. Adults spread on the wing.
• Biosecurity: need to test potential harm to native Sida (and other) species before release.
• Survival affected by condition of Sida; poor in dry seasons, needing reintroductions.
• Collect in wet season (at least 50); release together; check after 2-3 weeks for eggs/larvae, and later adults. Distribute further when beetles established over several square metres.