ESTABLISHMENT OF ACERIA MALHERBAE (ACARI: ERIOPHYIDAE) AS A BIOLOGICAL CONTROL AGENT FOR FIELD BINDWEED (CONVOLVULACEAE) IN THE NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS

Abstract

AbstractA European gall mite, Aceria malherbae Nuzzaci, was released and established in southern Alberta and Montana as a biological control agent for field bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis L. (Convolvulaceae). Populations of the mite survived for up to 4 years at some sites and caused slight to severe damage to the weed. The establishment of A. malherbae in these areas suggests that it could be established throughout the North American range of field bindweed.