Itching for an Answer: Gall-Forming Biological Control Agent Contains an Itch Mite Species Found at Localities Known for Periodic ‘Bite Outbreaks’

Biological control is an attractive option for controlling invasive plant species that are difficult to manage otherwise. However, the release of a non-native as biological agent carries risks. The most obvious risk relates impacts on other than targeted control. There are, however, also We report potential unintended impact Dasineura dielsi, gall-forming was released against Acacia cyclops in South Africa 2003. confirmed galls formed by D. dielsi A. harbor mites genus Pyemotes (P. cf. ventricosus) within their gall structures, which parasites various insect species, but known cause dermatitis humans. Sporadic biting incidences have been reported at least two locations Africa. implications manual clearing may expose humans itch and risks bites. Gall-forming insects fungi create niches herbivores gall-associated fauna. Although every possible food web interaction cannot be predicted, enough evidence exists require screening include non-target those pertaining non-host plants. Testing only whether agents compromised interactions with not sufficient during evaluation. If such associations from native range therefore can form introduced range, then any health socio-economic activities should disclosed. argue general development objective assessment compared benefits potentially accruing successful target plant.