Baseline isotope data for Spirodela sp.: nutrient differentiation in aquatic systems
- Hill, Jaclyn M, Kaehler, Sven, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Hill, Jaclyn M , Kaehler, Sven , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/444502 , vital:74246 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2012.03.063
- Description: The excessive addition of nitrogen to watersheds is recognized as one of the main causes of the global deterioration of aquatic ecosystems and an increasing number of studies have shown that δ15N signatures of macrophytes may reflect the N-loading of the system under investigation. This study investigated isotopic equilibration rates and concentration level effects of KNO3 and cow manure nutrient solutions on the δ15N and δ13C signatures, C/N ratios, % N and % C of Spirodela sp. over time, to determine the feasibility of their use in monitoring anthropogenic N-loading in freshwater systems. Spirodela δ15N signatures clearly distinguished between nutrient types within 2 days of introduction, with plants grown in KNO3 showing extremely depleted δ15N values (−15.00 to −12.00‰) compared to those growing in cow manure (14.00–18.00‰). Isotopic equilibration rates could not be determined with certainty, but plant isotopic differentiation between nutrient regimes became apparent after 2 days and started to equilibrate by day 4. Concentration level effects were also apparent, with Spirodela tissue displaying more depleted and enriched δ15N values in higher concentrations of KNO3 and cow manure respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hill, Jaclyn M , Kaehler, Sven , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2012
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/444502 , vital:74246 , https://doi.org/10.1016/j.watres.2012.03.063
- Description: The excessive addition of nitrogen to watersheds is recognized as one of the main causes of the global deterioration of aquatic ecosystems and an increasing number of studies have shown that δ15N signatures of macrophytes may reflect the N-loading of the system under investigation. This study investigated isotopic equilibration rates and concentration level effects of KNO3 and cow manure nutrient solutions on the δ15N and δ13C signatures, C/N ratios, % N and % C of Spirodela sp. over time, to determine the feasibility of their use in monitoring anthropogenic N-loading in freshwater systems. Spirodela δ15N signatures clearly distinguished between nutrient types within 2 days of introduction, with plants grown in KNO3 showing extremely depleted δ15N values (−15.00 to −12.00‰) compared to those growing in cow manure (14.00–18.00‰). Isotopic equilibration rates could not be determined with certainty, but plant isotopic differentiation between nutrient regimes became apparent after 2 days and started to equilibrate by day 4. Concentration level effects were also apparent, with Spirodela tissue displaying more depleted and enriched δ15N values in higher concentrations of KNO3 and cow manure respectively.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
Toxic effect of herbicides used for water hyacinth control on two insects released for its biological control in South Africa
- Authors: Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69960 , vital:29601 , https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2012.725825
- Description: The integrated control of water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae) has become necessary in South Africa, as biological control alone is perceived to be too slow in controlling the weed. In total, seven insect biological control agents have been released on water hyacinth in South Africa. At the same time, herbicides are applied by the water authorities in areas where the weed continues to be troublesome. This study investigated the assumption that the two control methods are compatible by testing the direct toxicity of a range of herbicide formulations and surfactants on two of the biological control agents released against water hyacinth, the weevil, Neochetina eichhorniae Warner (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and the water hyacinth mirid,Eccritotarsus catarinensis (Carvalho) (Hemiptera: Miridae). A number of the formulations used resulted in significant mortality of the mirid and the weevil. Products containing 2,4-D amine and diquat as active ingredients caused higher mortality of both agents (up to 80% for the mirid) than formulations containing glyphosate. Furthermore, when surfactants were added to enhance herbicide efficiency, it resulted in increased toxicity to the insects. We recommend that glyphosate formulations should be used in integrated control programmes, and that surfactants be avoided in order to reduce the toxic nature of spray formulations to the insect biological control agents released against water hyacinth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
- Authors: Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69960 , vital:29601 , https://doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2012.725825
- Description: The integrated control of water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae) has become necessary in South Africa, as biological control alone is perceived to be too slow in controlling the weed. In total, seven insect biological control agents have been released on water hyacinth in South Africa. At the same time, herbicides are applied by the water authorities in areas where the weed continues to be troublesome. This study investigated the assumption that the two control methods are compatible by testing the direct toxicity of a range of herbicide formulations and surfactants on two of the biological control agents released against water hyacinth, the weevil, Neochetina eichhorniae Warner (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and the water hyacinth mirid,Eccritotarsus catarinensis (Carvalho) (Hemiptera: Miridae). A number of the formulations used resulted in significant mortality of the mirid and the weevil. Products containing 2,4-D amine and diquat as active ingredients caused higher mortality of both agents (up to 80% for the mirid) than formulations containing glyphosate. Furthermore, when surfactants were added to enhance herbicide efficiency, it resulted in increased toxicity to the insects. We recommend that glyphosate formulations should be used in integrated control programmes, and that surfactants be avoided in order to reduce the toxic nature of spray formulations to the insect biological control agents released against water hyacinth.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2012
A context for the 2011 compilation of reviews on the biological control of invasive alien plants in South Africa
- Moran, V Clifford, Hoffmann, John C, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Moran, V Clifford , Hoffmann, John C , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451270 , vital:75035 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32923
- Description: Besides this introduction, which gives a historical and contextual perspective, this compilation of reviews in African Entomology volume 19(2), comprises 28 papers, 24 of which provide accounts of recent (i.e. emphasising the period from 1999-2010) South African biological control projects against individual invasive alien plant species, or against taxonomically- or functionally-related groups of species. Three of the papers deal with issues related to research and implementation of biological control, namely: regulations and risk assessment; mapping; and cost-benefit analyses. The concluding paper is a complete catalogue, with summary statistics and key references, of all the target weeds and of the insect, mite and pathogen species (and subsidiary taxa) that have been implicated in biological control efforts against invasive alien plants in South Africa since 1913. This compilation is the third in a series of accounts of all the biological control programmes against invasive alien plants that have been undertaken in South Africa: the first, produced in 1991, reviewed progress to that date and the next, published in 1999, was a review of progress from 1990-1998. A comparison of the contents of these three review volumes is given in tabular form. The 2011 compilation contains reports on 13 novel programmes, in the sense that they have not been previously reviewed. Eight of these projects have focused on incipient weeds, or on rapidly-emerging weed species or groups of species, that have only recently been targeted for biological control. The increased scope and commitment to weed biological control research in South Africa has been largely the consequence of the sustained support provided by the Working for Water Programme of the South African Department of Water Affairs, over the last 15 years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Moran, V Clifford , Hoffmann, John C , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451270 , vital:75035 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32923
- Description: Besides this introduction, which gives a historical and contextual perspective, this compilation of reviews in African Entomology volume 19(2), comprises 28 papers, 24 of which provide accounts of recent (i.e. emphasising the period from 1999-2010) South African biological control projects against individual invasive alien plant species, or against taxonomically- or functionally-related groups of species. Three of the papers deal with issues related to research and implementation of biological control, namely: regulations and risk assessment; mapping; and cost-benefit analyses. The concluding paper is a complete catalogue, with summary statistics and key references, of all the target weeds and of the insect, mite and pathogen species (and subsidiary taxa) that have been implicated in biological control efforts against invasive alien plants in South Africa since 1913. This compilation is the third in a series of accounts of all the biological control programmes against invasive alien plants that have been undertaken in South Africa: the first, produced in 1991, reviewed progress to that date and the next, published in 1999, was a review of progress from 1990-1998. A comparison of the contents of these three review volumes is given in tabular form. The 2011 compilation contains reports on 13 novel programmes, in the sense that they have not been previously reviewed. Eight of these projects have focused on incipient weeds, or on rapidly-emerging weed species or groups of species, that have only recently been targeted for biological control. The increased scope and commitment to weed biological control research in South Africa has been largely the consequence of the sustained support provided by the Working for Water Programme of the South African Department of Water Affairs, over the last 15 years.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
A review of the biological control programmes on Eichhornia crassipes (C. mart.) solms (Pontederiaceae), Salvinia molesta DS Mitch.(Salviniaceae), Pistia stratiotes L.(Araceae), Myriophyllum aquaticum (vell.) verdc.(Haloragaceae) and Azolla filiculoides Lam.(Azollaceae) in South Africa
- Coetzee, Julie A, Hill, Martin P, Byrne, Marcus J
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Hill, Martin P , Byrne, Marcus J
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451285 , vital:75036 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32900
- Description: Biological control against water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (C. Mart.) Solms (Pontederiaceae), salvinia, Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitch. (Salviniaceae), water lettuce, Pistia stratiotes L. (Araceae), parrot's feather, Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell.) Verdc. (Haloragaceae), and red water fern, Azolla filiculoides Lam. (Azollaceae) has been ongoing in South Africa since the release of the first biological control agent on water hyacinth in 1974. This review provides an account of progress for the period from 1999. Post-release evaluations over the last three years have shown that, with the exception of water hyacinth, all of these problematic aquatic plants have been suppressed effectively using classical biological control. In eutrophic water bodies at high elevations that experience cold winters, an integrated approach, that includes herbicide application and augmentive biological control, is required against water hyacinth. The grasshopper Cornops aquaticum (Brüner) (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Leptysminae) has recently been released as a new agent for water hyacinth, and Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) and Taosa longula Remes Lenicov (Hemiptera: Dictyopharidae) are being considered for release on water hyacinth. The longterm management of alien aquatic plants in South Africa relies on the prevention of new introductions of aquatic plant species that could replace those that have been controlled, and, more importantly, on a reduction in nutrient levels in South Africa's aquatic ecosystems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Hill, Martin P , Byrne, Marcus J
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451285 , vital:75036 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32900
- Description: Biological control against water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (C. Mart.) Solms (Pontederiaceae), salvinia, Salvinia molesta D.S. Mitch. (Salviniaceae), water lettuce, Pistia stratiotes L. (Araceae), parrot's feather, Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell.) Verdc. (Haloragaceae), and red water fern, Azolla filiculoides Lam. (Azollaceae) has been ongoing in South Africa since the release of the first biological control agent on water hyacinth in 1974. This review provides an account of progress for the period from 1999. Post-release evaluations over the last three years have shown that, with the exception of water hyacinth, all of these problematic aquatic plants have been suppressed effectively using classical biological control. In eutrophic water bodies at high elevations that experience cold winters, an integrated approach, that includes herbicide application and augmentive biological control, is required against water hyacinth. The grasshopper Cornops aquaticum (Brüner) (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Leptysminae) has recently been released as a new agent for water hyacinth, and Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) and Taosa longula Remes Lenicov (Hemiptera: Dictyopharidae) are being considered for release on water hyacinth. The longterm management of alien aquatic plants in South Africa relies on the prevention of new introductions of aquatic plant species that could replace those that have been controlled, and, more importantly, on a reduction in nutrient levels in South Africa's aquatic ecosystems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
A stable isotope approach for the early detection and identification of N loading in aquatic ecosystems
- Hill, Jaclyn M, Kaehler, Sven, Hill, Martin P, Coetzee, Julie A
- Authors: Hill, Jaclyn M , Kaehler, Sven , Hill, Martin P , Coetzee, Julie A
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/444491 , vital:74245 , https://www.wrc.org.za/wp-content/uploads/mdocs/KV 280.pdf
- Description: Global increases in urbanization and anthropogenic activity within wa-tersheds and catchment areas have resulted in excessive nitrogen loads in aquatic ecosystems. South Africa is deeply dependent on nat-ural resources for its economic health and as a consequence is particu-larly vulnerable to the degradation of its natural capital. Increased nitro-gen loading can result in widespread aquatic ecosystem degradation including: harmful algal blooms, increased turbidity, hypoxia, loss of aquatic vegetation and habitat and fish kills, it is also one of the mecha-nisms driving aquatic weed invasions. Understanding the fate and pro-cessing of anthropogenic nutrients in natural systems is therefore criti-cal for both preserving the well-being and biotic heritage for future gen-erations as well as providing a tremendous opportunity to improve the management driven by science. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of mapping anthropogenic pollution through sta-ble isotopes signatures of aquatic plants, to investigate the potential for identifying different pollution sources, concentrations and distributions in a freshwater environment and to determine the utility of these tech-niques in indentifying early eutrophication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Hill, Jaclyn M , Kaehler, Sven , Hill, Martin P , Coetzee, Julie A
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/444491 , vital:74245 , https://www.wrc.org.za/wp-content/uploads/mdocs/KV 280.pdf
- Description: Global increases in urbanization and anthropogenic activity within wa-tersheds and catchment areas have resulted in excessive nitrogen loads in aquatic ecosystems. South Africa is deeply dependent on nat-ural resources for its economic health and as a consequence is particu-larly vulnerable to the degradation of its natural capital. Increased nitro-gen loading can result in widespread aquatic ecosystem degradation including: harmful algal blooms, increased turbidity, hypoxia, loss of aquatic vegetation and habitat and fish kills, it is also one of the mecha-nisms driving aquatic weed invasions. Understanding the fate and pro-cessing of anthropogenic nutrients in natural systems is therefore criti-cal for both preserving the well-being and biotic heritage for future gen-erations as well as providing a tremendous opportunity to improve the management driven by science. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the feasibility of mapping anthropogenic pollution through sta-ble isotopes signatures of aquatic plants, to investigate the potential for identifying different pollution sources, concentrations and distributions in a freshwater environment and to determine the utility of these tech-niques in indentifying early eutrophication.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Regulation and risk assessment for importations and releases of biological control agents against invasive alien plants in South Africa
- Klein, Hildegard, Hill, Martin P, Zachariades, Costas, Zimmermann, Helmuth G
- Authors: Klein, Hildegard , Hill, Martin P , Zachariades, Costas , Zimmermann, Helmuth G
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451481 , vital:75052 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32898
- Description: The importation and release of biological control agents against invasive alien plants in South Africa are subject to regulation by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), under its Agricultural Pests Act, and by the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), initially under its Environment Conservation Act, subsequently under the National Environmental Management Act and eventually, as soon as the relevant regulations have been developed, under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act. Peer review, both within South Africa, and with colleagues in other countries, has helped to ensure the integrity of the science and practice of weed biological control in South Africa. This paper traces the development of the regulatory system from the first weed biological control project in 1913, through a dispensation when importations and releases were authorized by DAFF only to a dual regulatory system involving two government departments. Inappropriate legislation, lack of knowledge about biological control amongst the relevant authorities and the costs of employing compulsory private consultants are some of the reasons for significant delays that have become a feature in the authorization of biological control agent releases. These delays have set back several control programmes. Holding agents in quarantine while awaiting decisions ties up expensive space and staff time and increases the risk of losing colonies through accidents or decreased genetic vigour. It seems likely that changes in legislation within DEA will streamline the regulatory process in the near future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Klein, Hildegard , Hill, Martin P , Zachariades, Costas , Zimmermann, Helmuth G
- Date: 2011
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451481 , vital:75052 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32898
- Description: The importation and release of biological control agents against invasive alien plants in South Africa are subject to regulation by the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), under its Agricultural Pests Act, and by the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), initially under its Environment Conservation Act, subsequently under the National Environmental Management Act and eventually, as soon as the relevant regulations have been developed, under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act. Peer review, both within South Africa, and with colleagues in other countries, has helped to ensure the integrity of the science and practice of weed biological control in South Africa. This paper traces the development of the regulatory system from the first weed biological control project in 1913, through a dispensation when importations and releases were authorized by DAFF only to a dual regulatory system involving two government departments. Inappropriate legislation, lack of knowledge about biological control amongst the relevant authorities and the costs of employing compulsory private consultants are some of the reasons for significant delays that have become a feature in the authorization of biological control agent releases. These delays have set back several control programmes. Holding agents in quarantine while awaiting decisions ties up expensive space and staff time and increases the risk of losing colonies through accidents or decreased genetic vigour. It seems likely that changes in legislation within DEA will streamline the regulatory process in the near future.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
The role of eutrophication in the biological control of water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes, in South Africa
- Coetzee, Julie A, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69263 , vital:29474 , https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-011-9426-y
- Description: South Africa has some of the most eutrophic aquatic systems in the world, as a result of the adoption of an unnecessarily high 1 mg l-1 phosphorus (P) standard for all water treatment works in the 1970 s. The floating aquatic macrophyte, water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms (Pontederiaceae), has taken advantage of these nutrient rich systems, becoming highly invasive and damaging. Despite the implementation of a biological control programme in South Africa, water hyacinth remains the worst aquatic weed. A meta-analysis of published and unpublished laboratory studies that investigated the combined effect of P and nitrogen (N) water nutrient concentration and control agent herbivory showed that water nutrient status was more important than herbivory in water hyacinth growth. Analysis of long-term field data collected monthly from 14 sites around South Africa between 2004 and 2005 supported these findings. Therefore, the first step in any water hyacinth control programme should be to reduce the nutrient status of the water body.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
- Authors: Coetzee, Julie A , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2011
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69263 , vital:29474 , https://doi.org/10.1007/s10526-011-9426-y
- Description: South Africa has some of the most eutrophic aquatic systems in the world, as a result of the adoption of an unnecessarily high 1 mg l-1 phosphorus (P) standard for all water treatment works in the 1970 s. The floating aquatic macrophyte, water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms (Pontederiaceae), has taken advantage of these nutrient rich systems, becoming highly invasive and damaging. Despite the implementation of a biological control programme in South Africa, water hyacinth remains the worst aquatic weed. A meta-analysis of published and unpublished laboratory studies that investigated the combined effect of P and nitrogen (N) water nutrient concentration and control agent herbivory showed that water nutrient status was more important than herbivory in water hyacinth growth. Analysis of long-term field data collected monthly from 14 sites around South Africa between 2004 and 2005 supported these findings. Therefore, the first step in any water hyacinth control programme should be to reduce the nutrient status of the water body.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2011
Natural enemies from South Africa for biological control of Lagarosiphon major (Ridl.) Moss ex Wager (Hydrocharitaceae) in Europe
- Baars, Jan-Robert, Coetzee, Julie A, Martin, Grant D, Hill, Martin P, Caffrey, J M
- Authors: Baars, Jan-Robert , Coetzee, Julie A , Martin, Grant D , Hill, Martin P , Caffrey, J M
- Date: 2010
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76914 , vital:30637 , https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-010-0427-0
- Description: The non-native invasive plant, Lagarosiphon major (Hydrocharitaceae) is a submersed aquatic macrophyte that poses a significant threat to water bodies in Europe. Dense infestations prove difficult to manage using traditional methods. In order to initiate a biocontrol programme, a survey for natural enemies of Lagarosiphon was conducted in South Africa. Several phytophagous species were recorded for the first time, with at least three showing notable promise as candidate agents. Amongst these, a leaf-mining fly, Hydrellia sp. (Ephydridae) that occurred over a wide distribution causes significant leaf damage despite high levels of parasitism by braconid wasps. Another yet unidentified fly was recorded mining the stem of L. major. Two leaf-feeding and shoot boring weevils, cf. Bagous sp. (Curculionidae) were recorded damaging the shoot tips and stunting the growth of the stem. Several leaf-feeding lepidopteran species (Nymphulinae) were frequently recorded, but are expected to feed on a wide range of plant species and are not considered for importation before other candidates are assessed. The discovery of several natural enemies in the country of origin improves the biological control prospects of L. major in Europe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
- Authors: Baars, Jan-Robert , Coetzee, Julie A , Martin, Grant D , Hill, Martin P , Caffrey, J M
- Date: 2010
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/76914 , vital:30637 , https://doi.org/10.1007/s10750-010-0427-0
- Description: The non-native invasive plant, Lagarosiphon major (Hydrocharitaceae) is a submersed aquatic macrophyte that poses a significant threat to water bodies in Europe. Dense infestations prove difficult to manage using traditional methods. In order to initiate a biocontrol programme, a survey for natural enemies of Lagarosiphon was conducted in South Africa. Several phytophagous species were recorded for the first time, with at least three showing notable promise as candidate agents. Amongst these, a leaf-mining fly, Hydrellia sp. (Ephydridae) that occurred over a wide distribution causes significant leaf damage despite high levels of parasitism by braconid wasps. Another yet unidentified fly was recorded mining the stem of L. major. Two leaf-feeding and shoot boring weevils, cf. Bagous sp. (Curculionidae) were recorded damaging the shoot tips and stunting the growth of the stem. Several leaf-feeding lepidopteran species (Nymphulinae) were frequently recorded, but are expected to feed on a wide range of plant species and are not considered for importation before other candidates are assessed. The discovery of several natural enemies in the country of origin improves the biological control prospects of L. major in Europe.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2010
Quantitative post-release evaluation of biological control of floating fern, Salvinia molesta DS Mitchell (Salviniaceae), with Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands (Coleoptera Curculionidae) on the Senegal River and Senegal River Delta
- Diop Ousseynou, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Diop Ousseynou , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451467 , vital:75051 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32802
- Description: The floating aquatic fern, Salvinia molesta D.S Mitchell (Salviniaceae) was first recorded in Senegal in 1999 and by 2000 it covered an estimated area of 18 000 ha on the Senegal River Left Bank and tributaries (Senegal) and 7840 ha on the Senegal River Right Bank (Mauritania). The weevil, Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was considered the best option for control and some 48 953 weevils were released at 270 sites during 2002. Within one year, weevils had established and were recovered up to 50km from the release sites. At most of the release sites, the S. molesta infestation was reduced from 100 % to less than 5 % within 24 months of release. These results are discussed in the context of the weed's negative impact on aquatic systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
- Authors: Diop Ousseynou , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2009
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451467 , vital:75051 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32802
- Description: The floating aquatic fern, Salvinia molesta D.S Mitchell (Salviniaceae) was first recorded in Senegal in 1999 and by 2000 it covered an estimated area of 18 000 ha on the Senegal River Left Bank and tributaries (Senegal) and 7840 ha on the Senegal River Right Bank (Mauritania). The weevil, Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder and Sands (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was considered the best option for control and some 48 953 weevils were released at 270 sites during 2002. Within one year, weevils had established and were recovered up to 50km from the release sites. At most of the release sites, the S. molesta infestation was reduced from 100 % to less than 5 % within 24 months of release. These results are discussed in the context of the weed's negative impact on aquatic systems.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2009
Herbivory-induced reduction in photosynthetic productivity of water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae), is not directly related to reduction in photosynthetic leaf areas
- Ripley, Bradford S, deWet, L, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Ripley, Bradford S , deWet, L , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451425 , vital:75048 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32746
- Description: The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the reduced photosynthetic productivity of water hyacinth plants subject to N. eichhorniae adult feeding was simply the result of reduced leaf area, or if more complex mechanisms were involved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
- Authors: Ripley, Bradford S , deWet, L , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2008
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451425 , vital:75048 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32746
- Description: The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the reduced photosynthetic productivity of water hyacinth plants subject to N. eichhorniae adult feeding was simply the result of reduced leaf area, or if more complex mechanisms were involved.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2008
Development of Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg)(Lepidoptera: pyralidae) on six north American Opuntia species
- Mafokoane, L D, Zimmermann, Helmuth G, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Mafokoane, L D , Zimmermann, Helmuth G , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451346 , vital:75042 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32740
- Description: Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg) (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) has been used as a biological control agent of several Opuntia species around the world and is widely assumed to be a generalist on host plants within the genus Opuntia. The recent arrival and spread of C. cactorum on the North American mainland has raised concerns for the native species of Opuntia that are being utilized as hosts by the moth. To confirm that C. cactorum is a threat to a wide range of Opuntia species in North America, the host range of the moths was scrutinized in South Africa, where larval development could be monitored on several Opuntia species under natural conditions. Development was monitored on Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller, O. engelmannii Salm-Dyke, O. fulgida Englm, O. imbricata (Haworth) de Candolle, O. stricta Haworth and O. leucotrichta DC. Larval survival, egg to pupation, was highest on O. ficus-indica (79.2%) followed by O. engelmannii (57.5 %), O. stricta (55.0 %), O. leucotrichta (29.2 %), O. fulgida (24.2 %) and O. imbricata (16.7 %). Male and female pupal mass was highest, and duration of development shortest on O. ficus-indica. In adult multi-choice oviposition trials, females laid significantly more egg sticks on O. ficus-indica than on the other species. Although O. ficusindica is the preferred host for C. cactorum in South Africa, the moth is nevertheless able to utilize several other species of Opuntia as hosts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Mafokoane, L D , Zimmermann, Helmuth G , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451346 , vital:75042 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32740
- Description: Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg) (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) has been used as a biological control agent of several Opuntia species around the world and is widely assumed to be a generalist on host plants within the genus Opuntia. The recent arrival and spread of C. cactorum on the North American mainland has raised concerns for the native species of Opuntia that are being utilized as hosts by the moth. To confirm that C. cactorum is a threat to a wide range of Opuntia species in North America, the host range of the moths was scrutinized in South Africa, where larval development could be monitored on several Opuntia species under natural conditions. Development was monitored on Opuntia ficus-indica L. Miller, O. engelmannii Salm-Dyke, O. fulgida Englm, O. imbricata (Haworth) de Candolle, O. stricta Haworth and O. leucotrichta DC. Larval survival, egg to pupation, was highest on O. ficus-indica (79.2%) followed by O. engelmannii (57.5 %), O. stricta (55.0 %), O. leucotrichta (29.2 %), O. fulgida (24.2 %) and O. imbricata (16.7 %). Male and female pupal mass was highest, and duration of development shortest on O. ficus-indica. In adult multi-choice oviposition trials, females laid significantly more egg sticks on O. ficus-indica than on the other species. Although O. ficusindica is the preferred host for C. cactorum in South Africa, the moth is nevertheless able to utilize several other species of Opuntia as hosts.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The biology and laboratory host range of the weevil, Listronotus marginicollis (Hustache)(Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a natural enemy of the invasive aquatic weed, parrot's feather, Myriophyllum aquaticum (Velloso) Verde (Haloragaceae).
- Oberholzer, I G, Mafokoane, D L, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Oberholzer, I G , Mafokoane, D L , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451555 , vital:75059 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32727
- Description: Myriophyllum aquaticum (Velloso) Verde (Haloragaceae), parrot's feather, is a rooted aquatic plant, with stems of up to 3 m long and leafy terminal shoots. The plant roots in shallow water to form a dense tangle of stems and roots. The shoots emerge 200-500 mm above the water surface (Cilliers 1999). The leaves of the plant are feathery and occur in whorls. The stem-boring weevil, Listronotus marginicollis (Hustache) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), was next considered as the most promising additional biological control agent for the control of M. aquaticum in southern Africa (Cilliers 1999).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Oberholzer, I G , Mafokoane, D L , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451555 , vital:75059 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32727
- Description: Myriophyllum aquaticum (Velloso) Verde (Haloragaceae), parrot's feather, is a rooted aquatic plant, with stems of up to 3 m long and leafy terminal shoots. The plant roots in shallow water to form a dense tangle of stems and roots. The shoots emerge 200-500 mm above the water surface (Cilliers 1999). The leaves of the plant are feathery and occur in whorls. The stem-boring weevil, Listronotus marginicollis (Hustache) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), was next considered as the most promising additional biological control agent for the control of M. aquaticum in southern Africa (Cilliers 1999).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The relationship between female pupal mass and fecundity of Gratiana spadicea (Klug, 1829)(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
- Czypionka, K, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Czypionka, K , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451568 , vital:75060 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32729
- Description: In the early 1900s Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae), commonly known as dense thorned bitter apple and previously referred to as wild tomato, was introduced into southern Africa and has since become an invasive weed (Hill and Hulley 1995, 1996). In 1994 a chrysomelid beetle, Gratiana spadicea (Klug, 1829) (Coleoptera : Chrysomelidae), was introduced as a biological control agent against the weed (Hill and Hulley 1995). Prior to its release, various specificity tests were conducted to identify the potential host range of this agent. These included larval survival and adult choice and no-choice tests on several native and commercial Solanum species. These specificity tests generally identify the potential host range of an agent accurately, but fail to predict the magnitude of non-target risks in the field (Wan and Harris 1997; Louda et al. 2003).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
- Authors: Czypionka, K , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 2007
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451568 , vital:75060 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC32729
- Description: In the early 1900s Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae), commonly known as dense thorned bitter apple and previously referred to as wild tomato, was introduced into southern Africa and has since become an invasive weed (Hill and Hulley 1995, 1996). In 1994 a chrysomelid beetle, Gratiana spadicea (Klug, 1829) (Coleoptera : Chrysomelidae), was introduced as a biological control agent against the weed (Hill and Hulley 1995). Prior to its release, various specificity tests were conducted to identify the potential host range of this agent. These included larval survival and adult choice and no-choice tests on several native and commercial Solanum species. These specificity tests generally identify the potential host range of an agent accurately, but fail to predict the magnitude of non-target risks in the field (Wan and Harris 1997; Louda et al. 2003).
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2007
The effect of water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) SolmsLaubach (Pontederiaceae), on benthic biodiversity in two impoundments on the New Year's River, South Africa
- Midgley, John M, Hill, Martin P, Villet, Martin H
- Authors: Midgley, John M , Hill, Martin P , Villet, Martin H
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/442358 , vital:73978 , https://doi.org/10.2989/16085910609503868
- Description: Water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae), forms thick mats that affect water resource utilisation, but little is known about its impacts on biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems. The benthic invertebrate community and algal biomass were sampled under water hyacinth mats and in water hyacinth-free water over a 13-month period, using artificial substrates in New Year's Dam, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The number of families per substrate (U = 796.5, P 0.001), number of individuals per substrate (U = 620.5, P 0.001), Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index (U = 1 038, P 0.001), Margalef's Richness index (U = 1 136, P 0.002), Pielou's Evenness Index (U = 1 230, P 0.001) and chlorophyll a (U = 678, P 0.01) were all significantly lower under water hyacinth mats than in water hyacinth-free zones. Similarly, multivariate analyses showed more diversity in invertebrate communities in open water than under water hyacinth. Thus, the control of water hyacinth is important, in order to prevent both ecological and economic impacts of biodiversity loss.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
- Authors: Midgley, John M , Hill, Martin P , Villet, Martin H
- Date: 2006
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/442358 , vital:73978 , https://doi.org/10.2989/16085910609503868
- Description: Water hyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Martius) Solms-Laubach (Pontederiaceae), forms thick mats that affect water resource utilisation, but little is known about its impacts on biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems. The benthic invertebrate community and algal biomass were sampled under water hyacinth mats and in water hyacinth-free water over a 13-month period, using artificial substrates in New Year's Dam, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The number of families per substrate (U = 796.5, P 0.001), number of individuals per substrate (U = 620.5, P 0.001), Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index (U = 1 038, P 0.001), Margalef's Richness index (U = 1 136, P 0.002), Pielou's Evenness Index (U = 1 230, P 0.001) and chlorophyll a (U = 678, P 0.01) were all significantly lower under water hyacinth mats than in water hyacinth-free zones. Similarly, multivariate analyses showed more diversity in invertebrate communities in open water than under water hyacinth. Thus, the control of water hyacinth is important, in order to prevent both ecological and economic impacts of biodiversity loss.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2006
Glandular trichomes on the exotic Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae): effective deterrents against an indigenous South African herbivore
- Hill, Martin P, Hulley, Patrick E, Allsopp, J, van Harmelen, G
- Authors: Hill, Martin P , Hulley, Patrick E , Allsopp, J , van Harmelen, G
- Date: 1997
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451413 , vital:75047 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_152
- Description: An examination of the leaves of several native and exotic Solanum species revealed that they all possessed glandular and non-glandular trichomes. The density of glandular trichomes was, however, very much lower on the leaves of the indigenous species than on the leaves of a weed species, Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck, and two other South American Solanum species. This difference could have contributed to the depauperate faunas supported by the exotic species. The morphology and behaviour of an indigenous Solanum-feeding tortoise beetle, Conchyloctenia tigrina Oliver (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), and a South American tortoise beetle, Gratiana spadicea (IQug) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), were compared. The study revealed that while the exudate produced by the glandular trichomes afforded S. sisymbriifolium a level of resistance to C. tigrina, it is probably only one of the factors limiting the recruitment of indigenous herbivores onto S. sisymbriifolium.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1997
- Authors: Hill, Martin P , Hulley, Patrick E , Allsopp, J , van Harmelen, G
- Date: 1997
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451413 , vital:75047 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_152
- Description: An examination of the leaves of several native and exotic Solanum species revealed that they all possessed glandular and non-glandular trichomes. The density of glandular trichomes was, however, very much lower on the leaves of the indigenous species than on the leaves of a weed species, Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck, and two other South American Solanum species. This difference could have contributed to the depauperate faunas supported by the exotic species. The morphology and behaviour of an indigenous Solanum-feeding tortoise beetle, Conchyloctenia tigrina Oliver (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), and a South American tortoise beetle, Gratiana spadicea (IQug) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), were compared. The study revealed that while the exudate produced by the glandular trichomes afforded S. sisymbriifolium a level of resistance to C. tigrina, it is probably only one of the factors limiting the recruitment of indigenous herbivores onto S. sisymbriifolium.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1997
Suitability of Metriona elatior (Klug)(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae) as a biological control agent for Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam.(Solanaceae).
- Hill, Martin P, Hulley, Patrick E
- Authors: Hill, Martin P , Hulley, Patrick E
- Date: 1996
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451540 , vital:75058 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_195
- Description: A leaf-feeding tortoise beetle, Metriona elatior (Klug), was screened as a biological control agent for the weed Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam. in South Africa. Favourable biological characteristics of M. elatior include a high reproductive capacity, long-lived adults and several generations per year under laboratory conditions. Host range was investigated by larval survival, and host plant choice tests by adults. Larvae were successfully reared on 10 of 11native Solanum species tested, five exotic Solanum species (except S. sisymbriifolium) and on the economically important eggplant, S. melongena L. The adult females selected these native and exotic Solanum species, and eggplant as suitable for oviposition. Based on these results it was decided not to apply for release of this insect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1996
- Authors: Hill, Martin P , Hulley, Patrick E
- Date: 1996
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451540 , vital:75058 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_195
- Description: A leaf-feeding tortoise beetle, Metriona elatior (Klug), was screened as a biological control agent for the weed Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam. in South Africa. Favourable biological characteristics of M. elatior include a high reproductive capacity, long-lived adults and several generations per year under laboratory conditions. Host range was investigated by larval survival, and host plant choice tests by adults. Larvae were successfully reared on 10 of 11native Solanum species tested, five exotic Solanum species (except S. sisymbriifolium) and on the economically important eggplant, S. melongena L. The adult females selected these native and exotic Solanum species, and eggplant as suitable for oviposition. Based on these results it was decided not to apply for release of this insect.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1996
Insect herbivores associated with indigenous species of Solanum (Solanaceae) in the Transvaal, South Africa, and in Namibia
- Olckers, T, Hulley, Patrick E, Hill, Martin P
- Authors: Olckers, T , Hulley, Patrick E , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 1995
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451440 , vital:75049 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_108
- Description: Several indigenous Solanum (Solanaceae) species were surveyed in the Transvaal and Namibia as part of a broader study of the insect herbivores associated with indigenous, as well as weedy and cultivated exotic, solanurns in southern Africa. Insects were collected on three Solanum species in the Transvaal and on 10 in Namibia. Solanum panduriforme E. Mey. and S. incanum L. were abundant in both regions, while S. capense L. was the most common species in Namibia. These three Solanum species supported an abundance of insect herbivores, which included many oligophages found on solanurns in other regions of South Africa. Most of the Solanum insect species were found on a wide range of host plants, in a variety of habitats and under various climatic conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1995
- Authors: Olckers, T , Hulley, Patrick E , Hill, Martin P
- Date: 1995
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451440 , vital:75049 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_108
- Description: Several indigenous Solanum (Solanaceae) species were surveyed in the Transvaal and Namibia as part of a broader study of the insect herbivores associated with indigenous, as well as weedy and cultivated exotic, solanurns in southern Africa. Insects were collected on three Solanum species in the Transvaal and on 10 in Namibia. Solanum panduriforme E. Mey. and S. incanum L. were abundant in both regions, while S. capense L. was the most common species in Namibia. These three Solanum species supported an abundance of insect herbivores, which included many oligophages found on solanurns in other regions of South Africa. Most of the Solanum insect species were found on a wide range of host plants, in a variety of habitats and under various climatic conditions.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1995
Insect herbivores on the exotic weeds Solanum elaeagnifolium Cavanilles and S. sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae) in South Africa
- Hill, Martin P, Hulley, Patrick E, Olckers, T
- Authors: Hill, Martin P , Hulley, Patrick E , Olckers, T
- Date: 1993
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451454 , vital:75050 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_58
- Description: In South Africa, the weeds Solanum elaeagnifolium Cavanilles and S. sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae) sustain little observable damage from herbivorous insects. Relatively few insect species occur on these plants and at low individual densities. Since native insects are not important in the natural control of S. elaeagnifolium and S. sisymbriifolium, additional agents should be imported for the biological control of these weeds. The absence of important local herbivores means that the possibility of interaction between these and potential biological control agents need not be a consideration in choosing the agents. The nature and numbers of the insect herbivores of S. elaeagnifolium and S. sisymbriifolium are compared with those on another solanaceous weed, S. mauritianum Scopoli, and on native Solanum species. These insect species are discussed relative to plant defence mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1993
- Authors: Hill, Martin P , Hulley, Patrick E , Olckers, T
- Date: 1993
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/451454 , vital:75050 , https://hdl.handle.net/10520/AJA10213589_58
- Description: In South Africa, the weeds Solanum elaeagnifolium Cavanilles and S. sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae) sustain little observable damage from herbivorous insects. Relatively few insect species occur on these plants and at low individual densities. Since native insects are not important in the natural control of S. elaeagnifolium and S. sisymbriifolium, additional agents should be imported for the biological control of these weeds. The absence of important local herbivores means that the possibility of interaction between these and potential biological control agents need not be a consideration in choosing the agents. The nature and numbers of the insect herbivores of S. elaeagnifolium and S. sisymbriifolium are compared with those on another solanaceous weed, S. mauritianum Scopoli, and on native Solanum species. These insect species are discussed relative to plant defence mechanisms.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 1993