Prospects of the leaf- and stem-mining moth Digitivalva delaireae for the biological control of the invasive vine Delairea odorata in Australia
Abstract
Delairea odorata, an ornamental vine from South Africa, is a significant environmental weed, and a target for biological control, in Australia. The leaf – and stem-mining moth Digitivalva delaireae is a highly damaging candidate agent. Following extensive host-specificity testing by the USA, we conducted additional trials in Australia and South Africa, to assess the moth’s prospects for introduction into Australia. During trials with 33 non-target species, representing the closet relatives, only D. odorata supported larval feeding damage and development to pupation. Our results confirm that D. delaireae is highly host specific and thus a promising candidate for Australia.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Biological Control of Invasive Species
Forest Insect Ecology and Management
Insect-Plant Interactions and Control
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Biocontrol Science and Technology
- Volume
- 36
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 389–394
- Publication date
- 2 February 2026
- Language
- EN