Two new seed head flies attack yellow starthistle

Balciunas, J; Villegas, B

Two new seed head flies attack yellow starthistle

Authors

Joe Balciunas
Baldo Villegas

Authors Affiliations

J. Balciunas is Research Entomologist and Yellow Starthistle Biocontrol Project Leader at the Exotic & Invasive Weed Research Unit, USDA-ARS Western Regional Research Center, Albany; and a member of the UC Berkeley Center for Biological Control; B. Villegas is Associate Environmental Research Scientist, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Biological Control Program, Sacramento.

Publication Information

Hilgardia 53(2):8-11. DOI:10.3733/ca.v053n02p8. March 1999.

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Abstract

Six species of overseas insects have been approved for release as biological control agents of yellow starthistle, California's most pervasive weed. Previously, four biocontrol insects were known to be established in California; we now confirm the establishment of the peacock fly, as well as the accidentally introduced false peacock fly. Remarkably, the false peacock fly is significantly more widespread and more effective against yellow starthistle than the peacock fly — or any other biocontrol insect to date. However, since the false peacock fly is not an approved agent, we will await completion of our ongoing field and laboratory assessments of this fly's safety to crops and native plants before recommending use of this promising fly as a biological control agent.

References

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Also in this issue:

Biological studies of iceplant scales, Pulvinariella Mesembryanthemi and Pulvinaria delottoi (Homoptera: Coccidae), in California

Expanded efforts needed to limit exotic pests

Introduction Special section: exotic pest update

AHB headed to Central Valley?

Fire ant invades Southern California

Medfly - going but not gone

Can integrated methods stop starthistle?

New growth regulator herbicide provides excellent control of yellow starthistle

Success of mowing to control yellow starthistle depends on timing and plant's branching form

A new sharpshooter threatens both crops and ornamentals

Glassy-winged sharpshooters expected to increase plant disease

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Geographic races may exist among perennial grasses

Microsprinklers wet larger soil volume; boost almond yield, tree growth

Improving irrigation systems conserves water in greenhouse-grown cut flowers