Project Number: 6206-11220-004-18
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Aug 01, 2004
End Date: Jul 31, 2009

Objective:
Test and release Diorhabda beetles from the Old World for biological control of saltcedar in Texas and monitor beetle reproduction, mortality and dispersal in the field. Measure the impact of feeding by Diorhabda beetles on growth and survival of saltcedar and the impact of biological control of saltcedar on native plant and animal communities. Investigate the use of additional exotic insects from the Old World for biological control of saltcedar in Texas. Obtain approval by FWS and USDA-APHIS and make multiple releases of the Diorhabda beetles throughout approved watersheds of Texas.

Approach:
A combination of field and laboratory studies will be used to assess the population dynamics of newly released natural enemies of saltcedar. Estimates of population growth and dispersal will be assessed in combination with assessments of impact on the target plant population. Standard protocols of insect and plant monitoring will be followed as developed by the saltcedar consortium. GPS and GIS technologies will be used to help assess landscape level effects on the affected ecoystems.