Biological control of weeds : a world catalogue of agents and their target weeds

The field of biological control of weeds continues to expand, offering and ecologically sound and cost-effective method of controlling invasive weed species. More and more new agents are being assessed and released, while increasing international collaboration has enabled wider use of already successful agents. In particular there has been a dramatic increase in biological control programs in developing countries and those targeting weeds invasive in natural environments. The fourth edition of this catalogue provides a comprehensive reference source to all attempts at biological control of weeds undertaken to the end of 1996. A substantial number of new releases have been made since the publication of the third edition in 1992. The information in the catalogue is presented in four detailed lists: list A details with exotic vertebrates and fungi that have been released for biological control, and their target weeds; list B includes exotic invertebrates, essentially fish species, utilised to control weeds; list C deals with organisms that have been deliberately manipulated for weed control within their natural ranges; and list D covers organisms that have been released as biological control agents and now occur in countries other than those into which they were released. Each entry details the target weed, control agent, year of first release, country of origin of agent, status and degree of control, research organisation involved, and key references. The catalogue format has been modified slightly from earlier editions to improve ease of use. The book provides a means of keeping track of the world situation and should be reference for professionals, research workers and students interested in the biological control of weeds.