Prosopis spp. (Mesquite)

Invasive Prosopis species pose a significant threat to biodiversity, pasture production and water resources in South Africa. Aspects of the biology and the host range of the seed-feeding weevil, Coelocephalapion gandolfoi Kissinger (Coleoptera: Brentidae: Apioninae), were studied in Argentina and South Africa to evaluate its potential as a biocontrol agent.

Application for the release of C. gandolfoi in South Africa was recently approved (January 2020). Other potential biocontrol agents under study include the stem-galling wasps Eschatocerus spp. (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae).

Staff:
Fernando Mc Kay

Cooperators:
Catharina Kleinjan. University of Cape Town, South Africa.