Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Completed Competitive Grant

Biotic interference of biological control of purple loosestrife

Project ID: 2001-33

Abstract

Iowa State University has reared and released two European leaf-feeding beetle species to control purple loosestrife in Iowa wetlands. Expected reductions in loosestrife have not occurred, and biotic mortality factors may explain the failure of the beetles to curb the loosestrife.

Key Question: Purple loosestrife is an invasive weed that impairs wetland functioning and biocontrol methods using beetles didn't seem to reduce the problem?

Findings: The research shows that the beetle eggs are probably eaten by other predators and they might survive better in more diverse wetlands.

Lead investigator: John J. Obrycki, University of Kentucky

Year of grant completion: 2005

This competitive grant project was part of the Leopold Center's Initiative.

Topics: Biocontrol and Integrated Pest Management, Weed control alternatives (not GMOs)