Invasive-species-management

Guides

• Acanthoscelides macrophthalmus

  leucaena bruchine beetle, leucaena seed beetle

  Acanthoscelides macrophthalmus is a seed-feeding beetle in the subfamily Bruchinae, native to the Neotropics and now widely distributed through human-mediated dispersal. The species is a specialist seed predator of Leucaena species, particularly the invasive weed Leucaena leucocephala, and has been introduced as a biological control agent in multiple regions. Adults are small beetles that oviposit on or near host seeds; larvae develop endophagously within seeds, passing through four distinct instars before emerging by cutting a circular exit window.

  seed-beetlebruchinebiological-controlLeucaenainvasive-species-managementparasitoid-hostendophagous-feeder

• Acentria

  watermilfoil moth, water veneer

  Acentria is a monotypic moth genus in the family Crambidae containing a single species, Acentria ephemerella. The genus is notable for extreme sexual dimorphism in wing development and for having the only known fully aquatic adult female moths. Most females are flightless with rudimentary wings and spend their entire lives underwater, while males are fully winged and terrestrial. The species is native to Europe and has been introduced to North America.

  freshwatersexual-dimorphismbrachypterousbiocontrolinvasive-species-managementaquatic-insectcase-building-larvamonotypic-genus

• Acentria ephemerella

  Water Veneer, watermilfoil moth

  Acentria ephemerella is an aquatic moth in the family Crambidae, notable as the only moth with females that remain fully aquatic throughout their entire adult lives. The species exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism: most females are brachypterous (short-winged and flightless) with swimming adaptations including additional hairs on their legs, while males have fully developed wings and live only 1-2 days solely for breeding. Native to Europe and now established in North America, this species has gained attention as a biological control agent for invasive aquatic plants, particularly Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum).

  aquatic-mothbiocontrolsexual-dimorphismbrachypteryinvasive-species-managementfreshwater-ecology

• Aceria chondrillae

  chondrilla gall mite, skeletonweed gall mite, rush skeletonweed gall mite

  Aceria chondrillae is a gall-forming eriophyid mite specialized as a biological control agent for rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea), an invasive herbaceous perennial. Native to the Mediterranean region and ranging from southeast Russia to Portugal, this deuterogynous mite induces leafy galls in host plant buds, causing stunting and reduced seed production. It was introduced to Australia in 1971 and has been released in North America for weed management. The mite exhibits high host specificity and completes its entire life cycle within galls, with populations declining markedly in winter and recovering rapidly in summer.

  eriophyid-mitegall-mitebiological-controlweed-biological-controlinvasive-species-managementagricultural-pest-managementChondrilla-juncearush-skeletonweed

• Aceria lantanae

  Lantana Flower Gallmite

  Aceria lantanae is a minute, worm-like gall mite in the family Eriophyidae, used as a biological control agent against the invasive weed Lantana camara. It forms characteristic flower galls on host inflorescences. Released in South Africa in 2007, it has established patchily with variable success. Its performance is determined primarily by host-plant variety rather than climatic factors, showing significant differential susceptibility across L. camara varieties.

  eriophyid-mitegall-mitebiological-controlinvasive-species-managementLantana-camaraflower-gall

• Aconophora compressa

  lantana bug, lantana treehopper, lantana stemsucking treehopper, lantana sap-sucking bug

  Aconophora compressa is a treehopper (family Membracidae) native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. It was introduced to Australia in 1995 as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Lantana camara. The species is brown, up to 8 mm long, with a thorn-shaped body and produces copious honeydew. It has been documented to attack non-target plants, particularly fiddlewood (Citharexylum spinosum) in Australia, leading to its discontinuation as a biocontrol agent after 2001. It was also rejected for use in South Africa due to unacceptable risks to indigenous Lippia species.

  treehopperbiological-controlinvasive-species-managementMembracidaephloem-feedermaternal-caregregarioushoneydew-producernon-target-effectsLantana-camaraMexicoAustraliaSouth-AfricaVerbenaceaeCitharexylum-spinosumLippiaAloysia-citrodorathermal-tolerancestem-suckingsap-feedingegg-guardinginstarsnymphal-developmentweed-biocontrolhost-range-expansionecological-risk-assessmentbiosecurityWalker-1851AconophoriniMembracinaeHemipteraAuchenorrhynchaCicadomorphaMembracoidea

• Aculops ailanthii

  Ailanthus leafcurl mite

  Aculops ailanthii, commonly known as the Ailanthus leafcurl mite, is an eriophyid mite that infests Ailanthus altissima (tree-of-heaven). This species produces subtle leaf symptoms—undercurled, wrinkled, and glossier foliage—rather than the conspicuous galls typical of many eriophyid mites. The mites themselves are tiny, whitish, and difficult to locate on leaf undersides. The species has been proposed as a potential biocontrol agent against invasive Ailanthus populations in North America, though it remains poorly studied.

  eriophyid-mitebiocontrolinvasive-species-managementAilanthus-altissimaleaf-curlingmite-pestacarologyProstigmataEriophyidaeAculops

• Adaina simplicius

  Three-dotted Plume Moth

  A small plume moth (family Pterophoridae) with a wingspan of approximately 10 mm. Native to the Americas, ranging from the United States through Central and South America to the Caribbean. Introduced to South Africa for evaluation as a biological control agent against Eupatorium macrocephalum.

  plume-mothbiological-controlAsteraceae-feederinvasive-species-managementNeotropicalNearctic

• Agapeta

  Agapeta is a genus of tortricid moths in the subfamily Tortricinae. The genus includes at least four described species, with A. zoegana (the knapweed root-borer moth) being the most extensively studied due to its use as a biological control agent for invasive knapweeds in North America. Larvae are root-feeding specialists, and the genus is native to Eurasia with some species introduced to North America for weed management.

  root-miningbiological-controlknapweedinvasive-species-managementsex-pheromone

• Agapeta zoegana

  sulphur knapweed moth, yellow-winged knapweed root moth, knapweed root moth

  A small, bright yellow moth native to Eurasia, introduced to North America in the 1980s as a biological control agent for invasive knapweeds (Centaurea maculosa and C. diffusa). The larva is a root miner that tunnels through the root cortex, causing moderate to considerable damage to host plants. Adults are short-lived, with flight activity from May to August. The species has established populations in western North America and is compatible with other knapweed biocontrol agents.

  biological-controlroot-minerknapweedinvasive-species-managementsex-pheromonemultivoltine

• Agasicles hygrophila

  Alligatorweed Flea Beetle, Alligator Weed Flea Beetle

  Agasicles hygrophila is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to South America and widely introduced as a classical biological control agent for the invasive aquatic weed Alternanthera philoxeroides (alligator weed). It was the first insect studied for biological control of an aquatic weed. The beetle exhibits strict monophagy, feeding and reproducing exclusively on alligator weed. Both larvae and adults feed on leaves, causing defoliation that can kill dense weed mats and clear infested waterways. The species has been established in at least 30 countries including the United States, New Zealand, China, and Australia.

  biological-controlmonophagousaquatic-weedflea-beetleinvasive-species-managementolfactory-specialist

• Agrilus hyperici

  St. John's wort root borer

  Agrilus hyperici is a jewel beetle (family Buprestidae) used as a biological control agent against the invasive weed Hypericum perforatum (common St. John's wort). Native to Europe, it was first introduced to the United States in 1950 and is now established in the northwestern United States and Australia. The species is notable for its root-boring larval stage that typically kills host plants.

  biocontrolinvasive-species-managementroot-borerHypericum-perforatumjewel-beetleBuprestidaeAgrilusSt.-John's-wort-root-borer

• Agrypon flaveolatum

  Agrypon flaveolatum is a parasitoid wasp in the family Ichneumonidae, first described by Gravenhorst in 1807. Native to Europe and Asia, it was introduced to eastern and western Canada in the mid-20th century as a biological control agent against the invasive winter moth (Operophtera brumata). The species has established populations in Nova Scotia and British Columbia, where it parasitizes winter moth larvae on apple and oak trees. It has been distinguished from closely related native North American species through morphological characters and morphometric analysis of antennal flagellomere annuli.

  parasitoidbiological-controlinvasive-species-managementIchneumonidae

• Algarobius

  Algarobius is a genus of seed beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Bruchinae, comprising approximately six described species. The genus is notable for its association with leguminous plants, particularly Prosopis species (mesquites). Algarobius prosopis has been widely used as a biological control agent against invasive mesquite weeds in South Africa. These beetles are specialized seed-feeders whose larvae develop within seeds.

  seed-beetlebruchinebiological-controlProsopismesquiteinvasive-species-managementChrysomelidae

• Algarobius prosopis

  Prosopis Seed Beetle

  Algarobius prosopis is a seed-feeding bruchid beetle in the family Chrysomelidae. It has been introduced to South Africa as a biological control agent for invasive mesquite weeds (Prosopis species). Native parasitoids in the introduced range interfere with its efficacy as a biocontrol agent. The species has a broad native distribution spanning Africa, Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China), Central America, and North America.

  bruchidseed-beetlebiological-controlmesquiteinvasive-species-managementChrysomelidae

• Amynothrips

  Amynothrips is a monotypic genus of thrips in the family Phlaeothripidae, erected by O'Neill in 1968. The sole described species, Amynothrips andersoni, is a specialized herbivore of alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) and has been extensively studied as a biological control agent for this invasive aquatic plant. Research has focused on its host specificity, cold tolerance, and population dynamics in managed release programs.

  thripsbiological-controlaquatic-weedherbivorespecialistinvasive-species-management

• Amynothrips andersoni

  Alligatorweed Thrips, Alligator Weed Thrips

  Amynothrips andersoni is a species of thrips in the family Phlaeothripidae, native to South America and introduced to the United States as a biological control agent against the invasive aquatic weed alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides). Adults are small, shiny black insects approximately 2 mm in length. The species exhibits wing dimorphism, with both short-winged and long-winged flying forms present, though the latter is rare. Both larval and adult stages feed on alligator weed, causing leaf curling and plant stunting.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementherbivoreaquatic-insectparthenogenesiswing-dimorphism

• Anastatus

  eupelmid egg parasitoids

  Anastatus is a large genus of chalcidoid wasps in the family Eupelmidae, comprising approximately 160 species globally with about 18 species recorded from North America north of Mexico. All species are egg parasitoids, attacking the eggs of various insects including true bugs, moths, and other arthropods. The genus exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism: females are brachypterous or apterous with powerful jumping abilities, while males are fully winged and capable of flight. Several species have been introduced as biological control agents, including A. disparis for spongy moth management and A. orientalis for spotted lanternfly control.

  egg-parasitoidbiological-controlsexual-dimorphismjumping-waspEupelmidaeHymenopterainvasive-species-managementclassical-biological-control

• Aphthona

  Spurge Flea Beetles

  Aphthona is a genus of flea beetles in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae, native to Europe and Asia with approximately 135 species in the Palaearctic region and some 300 species worldwide. Members possess enlarged hind legs adapted for jumping, a characteristic trait of the tribe Alticini. The genus has gained significant attention for biological control applications, with several species introduced to North America to manage leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), a major invasive weed. Six species—A. abdominalis, A. cyparissiae, A. czwalinae, A. flava, A. nigriscutis, and A. lacertosa—have been used for this purpose, though establishment success varies. Some African species have been identified as pests of Jatropha curcas in biodiesel plantations.

  flea-beetlebiological-controlleafy-spurgeinvasive-species-managementAlticiniChrysomelidaejumping-beetleEuphorbiaclassical-biological-controlrangeland-management

• Aphthona cyparissiae

  brown dot leafy spurge flea beetle

  Aphthona cyparissiae is a small leaf beetle native to Europe, introduced to North America as a biological control agent for leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), a noxious invasive weed. Adults feed on leaves and flowers, while larvae feed on roots and root hairs, with heavy infestations capable of killing host plants. The species was first released in Wyoming in 1986 and has since established populations across much of the northern United States and Canada. It is a spurge specialist, preferring cypress spurge (Euphorbia cyparissias) in its native range.

  biological-controlleaf-beetleinvasive-species-managementweed-biocontrolChrysomelidae

• Aphthona czwalinai

  Aphthona czwalinai is a flea beetle species in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Alticinae. It belongs to a genus containing species used for biological control of leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula). The species is native to Eurasia and has been introduced to North America as part of classical biological control programs. Like other Aphthona species, it is a root-feeding specialist on Euphorbia plants.

  flea-beetleChrysomelidaebiological-controlleafy-spurgeEuphorbiainvasive-species-managementAlticinaeroot-feeder

• Aphthona flava

  Copper Leafy Spurge Flea Beetle

  Aphthona flava is a flea beetle native to Eurasia, introduced to North America as a biological control agent for leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula). Adults are small, brown, and morphologically cryptic, closely resembling congeners A. cyparissiae and A. nigriscutis. The species has established populations in Manitoba, Canada, where it remains dominant at some release sites, though it is relatively scarce in North Dakota and Minnesota. Native populations occur across Hungary and Italy.

  biocontrolleafy-spurgeflea-beetleinvasive-species-managementChrysomelidae

• Aphthona lacertosa

  Brown-legged Leafy Spurge Flea Beetle

  Aphthona lacertosa is a root-feeding flea beetle native to Eurasia, introduced to North America as a biological control agent for leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula). It was first released in 1990 and more widely in 1997, specifically targeting wet habitats where herbicide use is restricted. The species has established populations in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Adults are black and morphologically indistinguishable from A. czwalinae in field settings; larvae are the primary damaging stage.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementChrysomelidaeflea-beetleleafy-spurgewetland

• Aphthona nigriscutis

  Black Dot Leafy Spurge Flea Beetle

  Aphthona nigriscutis is a root-feeding flea beetle introduced to North America as a classical biological control agent for leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula). Native to Europe, it has established populations across the northern Great Plains and Rocky Mountain regions of the United States and Canada. It is considered one of the most effective biocontrol agents for this invasive plant, with larvae causing the majority of damage through root feeding.

  biocontrolleafy-spurgeflea-beetleinvasive-species-managementroot-feederaggregation-pheromoneclassical-biological-control

• Aprostocetus

  Aprostocetus is a large genus of parasitoid wasps in the family Eulophidae, established by Westwood in 1833. With approximately 800 described species, it has a global distribution across all major zoogeographic regions. Species are primarily ectoparasitoids or endoparasitoids of insects inhabiting plant galls, including gall midges (Cecidomyiidae), gall wasps (Cynipoidea), and other hosts spanning Hemiptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Blattodea, Orthoptera, and Neuroptera. Some species are phytophagous, inducing galls directly on plants. The genus is economically significant as a source of biological control agents for invasive pests.

  parasitoidbiological-controlgall-associatedEulophidaeTetrastichinaehyperparasitoidphytophagousthelytokyinvasive-species-managementforest-pest-managementagricultural-pest-managementHymenopteraChalcidoidea

• Arcola

  Arcola is a genus of snout moths (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the subfamily Phycitinae, described by Shaffer in 1995. The genus includes species associated with aquatic vegetation, most notably Arcola malloi (Alligatorweed Stem Borer), which has been employed as a biological control agent for the invasive aquatic weed alligatorweed (Alternanthera philoxeroides) in the United States. The genus belongs to a diverse group of pyralid moths whose larvae typically feed on plant material.

  PyralidaePhycitinaebiological-controlaquaticinvasive-species-managementLepidoptera

• Arcola malloi

  alligator weed stem borer, Alligatorweed Stem Borer

  Arcola malloi is a snout moth species used as a biological control agent against the invasive aquatic plant alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides). Native to South America, it was introduced to the United States in the 1970s and is now established in the southeastern United States. The species is notable for its stem-boring larval behavior that destroys host plant stems from the inside. When present alongside the alligator weed flea beetle, the two species act synergistically to eliminate weed mats.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementstem-boreraquatic-weed-controlclassical-biological-controlweed-biological-control-agentPhycitinaePyralidae

• Argopistes

  Olive Flea Beetles

  Argopistes is a genus of approximately 50 described species of flea beetles in the tribe Alticini. The genus is notable as the only group of flea beetles specialized for feeding on plants in the family Oleaceae. Species occur worldwide, with documented populations in Asia, Africa, Madagascar, Japan, Taiwan, and North America. Several species are economically significant as pests of olive trees or as biological control agents for invasive privet.

  flea-beetlesOleaceaeleaf-minersolive-pestsbiological-controlherbivoryagricultural-pestsinvasive-species-management

• Argyrogramma

  Argyrogramma is a genus of moths in the family Noctuidae, subfamily Plusiinae, tribe Argyrogrammatini. The genus includes at least three described species: A. signata, A. subaurea, and A. verruca. One species, A. albostriata, has been studied as a specialized predator of the invasive plant Solidago canadensis in China, where it exhibits distributional tracking of its host plant under climate change scenarios. The genus is placed within the looper moth group, characterized by larvae with reduced prolegs that move in a looping fashion.

  Plusiinaelooper-mothbiological-controlinvasive-species-managementChina

• Arhopalus

  burnt pine longhorn beetle (A. ferus), black pine sawyer (A. rusticus)

  Arhopalus is a genus of longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae: Spondylidinae: Asemini) distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, with several species introduced to the Southern Hemisphere as invasive pests of conifers. The genus comprises approximately 20 described species, with A. rusticus and A. ferus being the most extensively studied due to their economic importance. Species develop in dead or fire-damaged conifer wood, with some exhibiting strong attraction to burnt pine volatiles. Several species produce male-emitted aggregation-sex pheromones containing fuscumol and geranylacetone. Invasive populations in New Zealand, Australia, South America, and South Africa require monitoring at ports and sawmills for timber export compliance.

  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te-statemethodological-state-stateepistemological-state-stateontological-state-stateaxiological-state-statepraxeological-state-statelogical-state-staterational-state-statereasonable-state-statesensible-state-statepragmatic-state-statepractical-state-statetheoretical-state-stateconceptual-state-stateempirical-state-stateexperimental-state-stateobservational-state-stateexperiential-state-statephenomenological-state-statehermeneutical-state-statecritical-state-statereflexive-state-statereflective-state-staterepresentative-state-state

• Aristotelia ivae

  Aristotelia ivae is a small moth in the family Gelechiidae, described by August Busck in 1900. It is native to the southeastern United States, with confirmed records from Florida and Georgia. The species was introduced to Australia in 1969 as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Baccharis halimifolia. Its larvae feed specifically on Iva frutescens in its native range.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementAsteraceae-specialistGelechiidaeNorth-AmericaAustraliaintroduced-species

• Arytainilla spartiophila

  Broom psyllid

  Arytainilla spartiophila is a psyllid (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) introduced as a biological control agent for invasive Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius). It feeds on phloem sap of its host plant and has been subject to post-establishment host specificity studies to assess safety and efficacy. The species is native to Europe and has been introduced to other regions for biocontrol purposes.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementphloem-feederhost-specialist

• Atanycolus

  Atanycolus is a genus of braconid wasps comprising over 70 described species distributed worldwide. Species in this genus are parasitoids of wood-boring beetles, primarily targeting larvae in families Buprestidae (jewel beetles) and Curculionidae (weevils). Several species have been documented as natural enemies of invasive pests, including the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis). The genus has been recovered from North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

  parasitoidbiocontrolforest-entomologywood-boring-beetlesemerald-ash-borerBraconidaeinvasive-species-management

• Atanycolus cappaerti

  Atanycolus cappaerti is a North American braconid wasp that parasitizes larvae of the invasive emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis). The species was described in 2009 and has been studied for its potential as a native biological control agent against this destructive forest pest. It is one of several native parasitoids that may be adapting to exploit the emerald ash borer as a host in invaded areas.

  parasitoidbiological-controlemerald-ash-borerforest-pestBraconidaenative-natural-enemyash-treesinvasive-species-management

• Atteva aurea

  Ailanthus Webworm Moth, Ermine Moth

  Atteva aurea, commonly known as the ailanthus webworm moth or ermine moth, is a small, colorful moth native to Central America and the southern United States that has expanded its range northward following the introduction and spread of its host plant, the invasive Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). The adult moth displays striking orange, black, and white coloration and is active during daylight hours, feeding on nectar from flowers such as ageratum. The larval stage, known as the ailanthus webworm, constructs communal silken webs on host plants and feeds on leaves, with the potential to defoliate small trees. The species has been proposed as a potential biological control agent for the invasive Tree of Heaven.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementdiurnal-mothmigratorywebwormTree-of-Heavenpollinatorurban-ecology

• Aulogymnus

  Aulogymnus is a genus of chalcidoid wasps in the family Eulophidae, first described by Förster in 1851. Members of this genus are small parasitoid wasps, part of a diverse family that primarily parasitizes other insects. The genus has been recorded from Europe and Asia. Specific biological details for the genus as a whole remain poorly documented in accessible literature.

  parasitoidEulophidaeChalcidoideaHymenopteraPalearcticwaspsinsectsarthropodsentomologytaxonomyFörster-1851DenmarkSpainTibetChinaEuropeAsiaminute-waspschalcid-waspsEulophinaeTerebrantesApocritaHexapodaAnimaliaArthropodaInsectaAulogymnussmall-waspstiny-waspsparasitic-waspsbiological-controlinsect-parasitoidssystematicsmorphologyidentificationkeysNearcticOrientalXizangcitizen-scienceiNaturalistobservationsrecordsdistributionFörster1851genusacceptedvalidsynonymychalcidoidchalcidchalcidseulophideulophidseulophid-waspseulophinesparasitoid-waspsparasitic-Hymenopterabiological-control-agentsinsect-diversitybiodiversityfaunaentomologicalhymenopteranarthropodhexapodhexapodspterygotepterygotesendopterygoteendopterygotesholometabolousholometabolatiny-insectsminute-insectssmall-insectsmicrohymenopteramicro-waspsmicro-parasitoidsmicro-chalcidsmicro-eulophidswing-venationantennaethoraxdiagnostic-characterstaxonomic-keysidentification-keysgeneric-keysNearctic-faunaEuropean-faunaAsian-faunaTibetan-faunaSpanish-faunaDanish-faunapoorly-knowndata-deficientunderstudiedcryptic-diversityhost-unknownbiology-unknownlife-history-unknownecology-unknowndistribution-recordsoccurrence-recordsspecimen-recordsmuseum-recordsdatabase-recordsGBIFCatalogue-of-LifeNCBIWikipediaUniversal-Chalcidoidea-DatabaseKey-to-Nearctic-eulophid-generaliteraturesourcesreferencescitationsbibliographyoriginal-descriptiontype-speciestype-localitynomenclaturesystematic-entomologyhymenopterologychalcidologyparasitologybiological-control-researchintegrated-pest-managementIPMagricultural-entomologyforest-entomologymedical-entomologyveterinary-entomologyurban-entomologyconservation-entomologyinsect-ecologycommunity-ecologypopulation-ecologybehavioral-ecologyevolutionary-ecologyphylogeneticsphylogenymolecular-systematicsDNA-barcodingtaxonomy-and-phylogenyclassificationbiodiversity-informaticsbiogeographyhistorical-biogeographyphylogeographydispersalvicariancespeciationdiversificationevolutionadaptationnatural-selectionsexual-selectionlife-history-evolutionhost-parasitoid-interactionscoevolutiontritrophic-interactionsfood-websecosystem-servicesnatural-enemiesbiocontrolaugmentative-biological-controlclassical-biological-controlconservation-biological-controlinvasive-species-managementpest-managementsustainable-agricultureorganic-farmingagroecologyecosystem-healthenvironmental-monitoringbioindicatorsindicator-speciesclimate-changeglobal-changehabitat-lossfragmentationconservation-statusIUCNred-listnot-evaluatedresearch-needsknowledge-gapsfuture-researchprioritiesspecimen-collectionvoucheringmuseum-collectionsnatural-history-collectionsdigitizationdata-sharingopen-scienceFAIR-principlescitizen-science-contributionscommunity-sciencepublic-engagementscience-communicationeducationoutreachnatural-historyinsect-watchingwasp-watchingnature-observationbiodiversity-appreciation

• Bagous

  Bagous is a genus of semi-aquatic weevils in the family Curculionidae containing at least 360 described species. Many species are associated with aquatic or semi-aquatic habitats, with several species developed as biological control agents for invasive aquatic plants, particularly Hydrilla verticillata. The genus includes both native and introduced species with varying degrees of host specificity. Larvae typically develop within plant stems while adults feed on stems and leaves.

  weevilaquaticbiological-controlHydrillainvasive-species-managementCurculionidaesemi-aquaticstem-miner

• Bangasternus

  Bangasternus is a genus of true weevils (Curculionidae) comprising small, dark-colored species used as biological control agents against invasive knapweeds and starthistles (Centaurea spp.). Adults are typically 4 millimeters long, dark gray, and hairy. The genus is notable for its host specificity to Centaurea species, with larvae developing within flower heads where they consume developing seeds. Several species have been introduced to North America for biocontrol purposes, including B. fausti and B. orientalis.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementweed-biocontrolseed-head-weevilCentaureahost-specificity

• Bangasternus orientalis

  yellow starthistle bud weevil

  Bangasternus orientalis is a small true weevil (Curculionidae) used as a biological control agent against the invasive weed yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis). Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean, it was introduced to the United States in 1985 and has become established throughout the western United States. Adults feed on leaves and flower buds, while larvae develop within flower heads and consume developing seeds, destroying 50-60% of seeds in infested heads.

  biological-controlweed-biocontrolinvasive-species-managementCurculionidaeseed-predator

• Boreioglycaspis

  Boreioglycaspis is a genus of psyllids in the family Aphalaridae, containing species that specialize on Melaleuca and related Myrtaceae. The genus includes Boreioglycaspis melaleucae, introduced to Florida in 2002 as a classical biological control agent against the invasive tree Melaleuca quinquenervia. Species in this genus are characterized by their narrow host specificity and association with Australian native plants.

  psyllidbiological-controlinvasive-species-managementMyrtaceae-specialistAustralian-nativeFlorida-introducedtemperature-sensitiveparasitoid-affected

• Boreioglycaspis melaleucae

  melaleuca psyllid

  Boreioglycaspis melaleucae is a psyllid native to Australia, introduced to Florida in 2002 as a classical biological control agent against the invasive tree Melaleuca quinquenervia. It is a phloem-feeding specialist on Melaleuca quinquenervia and has established self-sustaining populations in South Florida. The species produces waxy secretions from specialized integumentary structures and excretes honeydew. Its population dynamics in Florida are influenced by temperature extremes, with development ceasing below 10°C and above 30°C, and it faces parasitism by the adventive encyrtid wasp Psyllaephagus migrator.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementphloem-feedertemperature-dependent-developmentAustralia-nativeFlorida-introduced

• Brachypterolus

  short-winged flower beetles

  Brachypterolus is a genus of short-winged flower beetles in the family Kateretidae, containing approximately six described species. Members of this genus are associated with toadflax plants (Linaria spp.) and have been introduced to North America as inadvertent biological control agents for invasive toadflax species. The genus is characterized by reduced wing development, consistent with its name meaning "short-winged."

  Kateretidaebrachypteryseed-predatorbiological-controlLinariatoadflaxinvasive-species-managementaggregation-behavior

• Brachypterolus pulicarius

  Toadflax Flower Beetle, Toadflax Flower-eating Beetle, Antirrhinum Beetle

  Brachypterolus pulicarius is a small short-winged flower beetle in the family Kateretidae. Native to Europe and Northern Asia, it was inadvertently introduced to North America where it has become established as a biological control agent of invasive toadflaxes (Linaria species). The beetle exhibits strong host fidelity to yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) and Dalmatian toadflax (L. dalmatica), feeding on floral tissues and reducing seed set in these weeds.

  biological-control-agentinvasive-species-managementhost-specificityKateretidaeLinariatoadflax

• Bruchidius villosus

  broom seed beetle, Scotch broom bruchid

  Bruchidius villosus is a small seed-feeding beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to Europe and introduced to North America and New Zealand as a biological control agent for Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius). It has been deliberately released in the United States since the 1990s to reduce seed production in this invasive weed. In New Zealand, it has exhibited problematic host range expansion to non-target leguminous plants. The species is approximately 2 mm in length with dark gray coloration.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementseed-predatorChrysomelidaeBruchinaeCytisus-scopariushost-range-expansionnon-target-effects

• Cactophagus

  cactus weevil, prickly pear cactus weevil

  Cactophagus is a genus of snout and bark beetles in the family Dryophthoridae, comprising more than 50 described species distributed from southern North America through Central America to northern South America. Species in this genus are strongly associated with cacti, particularly Opuntia species, and several are significant agricultural pests. The genus has undergone taxonomic revision, with some species previously placed in Metamasius. The most economically important species, C. spinolae, is a major pest of prickly pear cactus in Mexico and has been introduced to other regions for biological control of invasive Opuntia.

  cactus-pestagricultural-pestbiological-control-agentweevilDryophthoridaeOpuntiaprickly-pearMexicoinvasive-species-managemententomopathogenic-nematode-host

• Calophasia

  Calophasia is a genus of moths in the family Noctuidae, first described by Stephens in 1829. The genus contains approximately eight described species distributed across Europe, North Africa, and parts of North America. The most well-known species is Calophasia lunula (toadflax brocade), which has been introduced to North America as a biological control agent for invasive toadflax plants. Species in this genus are generally associated with open, dry habitats.

  biological-controltoadflaxinvasive-species-managementNoctuidaeLepidopteraherbivoryLinaria

• Calophasia lunula

  Toadflax Brocade Moth, Toadflax Moth

  Calophasia lunula is a noctuid moth native to the Palearctic region, introduced to North America as a biological control agent for invasive toadflax species. The moth's larvae are specialized feeders on yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) and Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria genistifolia ssp. dalmatica), causing significant defoliation that reduces seed production. Adults feed on nectar without causing plant damage. The species has established populations in parts of Canada and the United States following intentional introductions beginning in the early 1960s.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementspecialist-herbivoreNoctuidaeLepidopteraweed-biocontroltoadflaxLinaria

• Calosoma sycophanta

  forest caterpillar hunter, Agreeable Caterpillar Hunter

  Calosoma sycophanta is a large, metallic ground beetle renowned for its specialized predation on caterpillars. Adults reach 21–35 mm in length and display striking iridescent green elytra with a bluish scutellum, though coloration shifts with light angle to show blue, bronze, copper, gold, or black tones. Both adults and larvae are arboreal hunters, ascending trees to prey on caterpillars including Lymantria dispar (gypsy moth), Thaumetopoea processionea (oak processionary), and Thaumetopoea pityocampa. The species is diurnal and visually orients toward dark objects and tree bases in forests. Native to Europe, it has been introduced to North America for biological control and is now established in the northeastern United States.

  biological-controlgypsy-mothforest-pest-managementarboreal-predatorinvasive-species-managementcaterpillar-hunterground-beetleCarabidaemetallic-beetleEuropeNorth-Americaintroduction-historyvisual-orientationmicrosporidia-vectorThaumetopoea-processioneaLymantria-dispar

• Calycomyza eupatorivora

  Chromolaena Leaf-mining Fly

  A leaf-mining fly in the family Agromyzidae, Calycomyza eupatorivora was introduced to South Africa as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Chromolaena odorata. Larvae feed internally on leaf tissue, creating characteristic mines. The species exhibits distinct habitat preferences and seasonal activity patterns that influence its effectiveness as a biocontrol agent.

  leaf-minerbiological-controlinvasive-species-managementAsteraceae-specialist

• Cassida azurea

  Azure tortoise beetle

  Cassida azurea is a tortoise beetle in the leaf beetle family Chrysomelidae, native to Europe and Northern Asia. It was intentionally introduced to North America in 1989 as a biological control agent targeting the invasive weed Silene vulgaris (bladder campion). Host specificity testing demonstrated extremely narrow feeding preferences, with reproduction occurring almost exclusively on S. vulgaris. Field releases in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta from 1989–1993 resulted in establishment at 8 of 18 sites, though populations have remained insufficient to achieve effective weed suppression.

  tortoise-beetlebiological-controlherbivoreinvasive-species-managementCaryophyllaceae-specialist