Redistribution and Establishment of 'Aceria malherbae' for Biological Control of Field Bindweed ('Convolvulus arvensis')

Abstract

A cooperative field bindweed biological control program was initiated in the spring of 1999 in Oklahoma. 'Aceria malherbae' N.-infested field bindweed foliage was hand collected near Bushland, TX. Foliage (50 to 100 g) was placed in each of 20027 by 28 cm polyethylene bags with closures and transported to Oklahoma for distribution the next day to interested wheat producers at the annual North Central Research Station field day on May 15,1999. Producers provided detailed information on their normal farming practices prior to obtaining one bag of 'A. malherbae'-infested field bindweed foliage. Producers also agreed to allow to their property to periodically inspect the release sites. Producers were instructed to release the mites the day they received them onto growing field bindweed in winter wheat ('Triticum aestivum' L.) on their property. 'A. malherbae' infested foliage was also released at undisturbed sites at the North Central Research Station, the Stillwater Agronomy Research Station, and the Oklahoma Panhandle Research and Extension Center, to establish 'A. malherbae' nurseries. This process was repeated on May 19, 2000. During October and November each year, all sites were inspected for 'A. malherbae' feeding damage. Of 106 cooperative release sites established in 1999, 2 had 'A. malherbae' feeding damage when inspected in November 1999. These were located in Harper and Beaver Counties in the Oklahoma Panhandle. During October and November 2000 all 1999 release sites were revisited as well as the 48 cooperative release sites established on May 19, 2000. At this time the only site with visible 'A. malherbae' feeding damage was the site from Harper County. Of the three nursery sites, 'A. malherbae' became established only at the Oklahoma Panhandle Research and Extension Center.