Field bindweed
Two species of natural enemies are presently being released in Colorado for the suppression of field bindweed. The first, a small eriophyid mite, Aceria malherbae, is a microscopic wormlike mite that causes gall formation along the midribs of the leaves, petioles and stem tips, stunting the plant and reducing seed production. They are established in Colorado and are available upon request.
The bindweed moth, Tyta luctuosa, is also being reared at the Insectary for release to the field. Larvae of this noctuid moth defoliate bindweed plants by consuming both leaves and flower buds. The moth has now been found to overwinter in the Grand Valley, the first place in the United States where establishment has been documented.
Field bindweed |
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Aceria malherbae |
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Photos by: Colorado Department of Agriculture
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Tyta luctuosa |
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Photos by: Colorado Department of Agriculture
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