Diorhabda carinulata
(formerly D. elongata)
<<back to saltcedar
Common Name
Saltcedar leaf beetle
Weed Impacted
Larvae and adults feed on saltcedar foliage. The beetles may also feed on other species in the genera Tamarix and Frankenia but do not have significant impacts on those plants.
Insect Description
Adults are small yellowish-tan beetles, 5.5-6 mm (approx. 1/4 in) long, with dark brown stripes down the back. Mature larvae are around 9 mm (about 1/3 in) long, caterpillar-like, and are black with yellow stripes down the sides.
Life Cycle
Five different strains of Diorhabda elongata occur in the field, and life cycles vary with strain and the latitude of release. Generally the beetle can complete 2 or more generations per year. Overwintering adults may emerge from soil/litter as early as March or as late as May. Eggs are laid on young foliage or small stems. Larvae feed for about 3 weeks, after which the mature larvae either crawl or drop to the ground where they will pupate under plant litter or in loose soil.
Field Identification
The presence of D. elongata in the field can be identified by brown, defoliated saltcedar shrubs.
Availablity
As of 2009, the USDA-APHIS suspended all permits for the interstate movement of the saltcedar beetle Diorhabda carinulata (formerly D. elongata). It is not available in Washington State.
Comments
This beetle is showing potential to be an effective agent in the management of saltcedar.
Using the Agent: Integrated Weed Management (IWM)
Releases of D. elongata should only be made where saltcedar infestations are large and eradication is not the primary objective. Smaller infestations and satellite plants may be sprayed. Consult with your county weed office, Extension office or an IWM practitioner to determine which herbicide treatments are safe and appropriate.
Any management of saltcedar should include revegetation with more desirable, competitive plants. Revegetation promotes competition for resources, which stresses weeds and can allow for more effective treatments. To learn more about revegetation and IWM, click here.
References
Coombs, E. M., J. K. Clark, G. L. Piper, and A. F. Cofrancesco, Jr. 2004. Biological Control of Noxious Weeds in the United States. Western Society of Weed Science, Oregon State Univ. Press, Corvallis.
Photo Credits
Diorhabda elongata adult - R. Richard, USDA-APHIS, bugwood.org http://www.insectimages.org/images/768x512/1319096.jpg
Diorhabda elongata damage - Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University http://www.insectimages.org/images/768x512/5393502.jpg
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