n African Entomology - Insects associated with Bryophyllum delagoense (Crassulaceae) in Madagascar and prospects for biological control of this weed

Abstract

Surveys of insects associated with Bryophyllum delagoense in Madagascar was undertaken to identify potential biological control agents for this species in Australia. Seventy-five B. delagoense localities in southern Madagascar were surveyed at least once during four survey trips over a two-year period. Insects representing four orders, 15 families, and 23 species were collected, of which only 10 species were thought to be able to complete their development on B. delagoense. Three of these, Osphilia tenuipes (Curculionidae), Rhembastus sp. (Chrysomelidae), and Eurytoma sp. (Eurytomidae) were selected as potential biological control agents as they were abundant, widespread, damaging, and easy to rear.