Specificity of Liothrips urichi (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) for Clidemia hirta in American Samoa
Cook R. 2001. Specificity of Liothrips urichi (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) for Clidemia hirta in American Samoa. Proceedings of the Hawaiian Entomological Society. 35:143-144
Clidemia hirta is an aggressive alien plant pest in American Samoa. In 1974 the biocontrol agent Liothrips urichi was introduced to Tutuila, American Samoa and has helped to control Clidemia on Tutuila. Contrary where urichi is absent in Tau, there are sites in the National Park of American where Clidemia comprises approximately half the ground cover. In conclusion Clidemia hirta may be a safe biological control agent.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Cook, Robert
- Units
- NPSA , PACN
- Keywords
- American Samoa, biological control agent, clidemia hirta, Exotic/Invasive Plants, Insect, Liothrips urichi, Plant Studies