What happens when a biocontrol agent attacks exotic but desired ornamentals?

摘要

Significant damage to non-target plant species by a biological control agent could be inimical to the future of biocontrol, particularly if it is associated with widespread community concern. When an agent attacks exotic non-target species that are valued by some members of the community, then the issues become clouded and difficult to address. Aconophora compressa (Walker) was approved for release as an agent for biocontrol of Lantana camara L. in 1995, after 21 state and federal environmental and agricultural agencies reviewed and supported the submission. Aconophora compressa established in the field and since 1999, when A. compressa populations became locally high, it has also attacked the introduced ornamentals fiddlewood, Citharexylum spinosumL. and duranta, Duranta erecta L. Both plant species are popular garden plants, although fiddlewood is no longer widely planted. Adults were also found on several other closely related species in the same family or closely related families. While rurallandholders and land managers were demanding agents to assist in the management of lantana, Australia's worst environmental weed, residents in south-east Queensland were concerned that A. compressa was damaging their garden plants. The situation was bothchallenging and complex -placating angry homeowners, while trying to control a Weed of National Significance. This paper discusses the issues, processes and outcomes involved With the handling of the A. compressa situation in south-east Queensland, covering science, extension, communication, policy and media.