Biological and Host Range Studies With Two Species of Hydrellia (Diptera:Ephydridae) That Feed on Hydrilla

摘要

Hydrilla verticillata (L. fil.) Royle (common name hydrilla) is a noxious aquaticplant introduced into the United States from Africa through the aquarium industry and sold under the name oxygen plant or Star Vine. Hydrilla has long branching stems that often fragment and form large floating mats and can grow in water depths up to 15 m. Two reproductive structures that enable hydrilla to withstand extremely harsh weather conditions are turions or winter buds (dense clusters of apical leaves that are produced in the leaf axils, green and ovoid-conical shaped buds), and bubil-like hibernacular commonly, but incorrectly, called tubers (these are formed at the ends of stolons buried in the substratum). Plants are found in lakes, rivers, drainage and irrigation canals, ponds, and streams. Severe infestations of hydrilla can restrict boat traffic and interfere with fisheries and waterflow. Biological control methods using insects appear to be an excellent alternative to conventional methods (mechanical harvesting or herbicide application) or may be used in conjunction with conventional methods to enhance control or possible eradication of nuisance aquatic plants. Ephydridae, Hydrellia balciunasi, Hydrellia, Hydrellia pakistance.This report presents results of studies on the biologies and laboratory host ranges of two species of flies that feed on hydrilla, Hydrellia, Hydrellia pakistanae Deonier and Hydrellia balciunasi Boch. Ephydridae, Hydrellia, Hydrellia balciunasi, Hydrellia pakistanae.