ERDC/EL CR-14-2 "Identification, Development, and Release of Insect Biocontrol Agents for the Management of Phragmites australis"

Introduced Phragmites australis is rapidly spreading in North America, threatening wetland plant communities and endemic native genotypes (Phragmites australis americanus). Lack of successful long-term control resulted in initiation of biological control research. In the past, the program targeting introduced Phragmites has focused on several promising potential biological control agents with large impacts on P. australis. The purpose of this report is to: (1) identify potential agents for in-depth study; (2) outline and report initial testing procedures and results of host-specificity studies of identified agents; (3) assess possibilities to develop laboratory/greenhouse mass-rearing procedures; (4) outline approaches for long-term monitoring at pre-release sites; and (5) assess the extent of hybridization between native and introduced genotypes. All selected insect species are stem miners that overwinter as eggs, with larvae feeding in spring and early summer. Host specificity testing is being conducted in a Rhode Island quarantine facility and at the Center for Agricultural Bioscience International (CABI) in Switzerland. In addition, investigations continue on the impact of Phragmites populations on native fauna and flora as well as the economic and ecological effects of Phragmites invasion. Hybridization between native and introduced genotypes appears to be restricted to a single hybridization event in central New York State. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents. DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN NO LONGER NEEDED. DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR.