Importation and release of a new biological control agent for Scotch Broom

Aims

The aim of this project is to import and release the specialist galling mite Aceria genistae to increase damage to Scotch broom. This agent will be imported from New Zealand into DPI quarantine, Frankston and reared for one generation. After one generation, tests will be conducted to ensure that the agent is free from parasites and bacterial pathogens and approval to release it from quarantine will be requested from AQIS. When approved for release, colonies of the agent will be given to the states involved in the project.

Background

Three biocontrol agents have been released in Australia, but a desired level of control has not been attained with these agents.

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