Solanum elaeagnifolium (Silverleaf nightshade)

This weed is distributed in a wide range of habitats and latitudes. Locally, it is considered to be a noxious weed and, worldwide, as one of the worst invasive weeds. The need for plant management methods, including biological control, is urgent, particularly, in Australia.

Solanum elaeagnifolium is a polyploid species, very invasive due to its great adaptability to various types of soils and its successful regeneration system from gemmiferous roots and seeds. These characteristics make it difficult to control in agroecosystems of high economic importance. At FuEDEI, we are searching for arthropods and pathogens as natural antagonists of the plant in Argentina to determine their potential as biological control agents. The geographical distribution of the plant and the degree of ploidy are also considered. A phytophagous mite (Eriophyidae) and a plant pathogen fungus (rust) are currently being studied.

Staff:
Alejandro Sosa, Mariel Guala, Ana Faltlhauser, Guillermo Cabrera Walsh

Cooperators:
Greg Lefoe, Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Australia
Facundo Daddario, CONICET-CERZOS, Bahía Blanca
Freda Anderson, CONICET-CERZOS, Bahía Blanca
Franco Chiarini, IMBIV, UNC, Córdoba