Classical Biological Control
Classical
biocontrol
in Australia has some remarkable achievements with many organisations,
Commonwealth and State, involved in the research.
- 1930s - control
of prickly pear (Opuntia
spp.) by Cactoblastis cactorum
- 1970s - control
of narrow leaf form of skeleton weed
using a rust fungus
- 1970s and
early 1980s - control of spotted alfalfa
aphid in lucerne by parasitic wasps
- 1960s to
1980s - dung beetles to bury
dung. Stopped pest flies breeding and pasture fouling
There have also
been disappointments. Efforts to control lantana
started in 1910 and 28 agents have been introduced, with minimal
impact.
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