In 1992 the Canadian and US governments approved the introduction and release of Neogalerucella calmariensis and N. pusilla (formerly of the genus Galerucella) as classical biological control agents for the invasive, non-native plant species, purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria L.)
The Neogalerucella spp. beetles are host specific, leaf-feeders of the family Chrysomelidae. Both the adult and the larval lifestages of the beetle feed on the plant, and all lifestages of the beetle can be found on, or at the base of the plant. The introduction of these beetles, their establishment, population growth and dispersal has significantly impacted purple loosestrife populations in Ontario, and in other Canadian provinces and US states.
The Neogalerucella spp. beetles are host specific, leaf-feeders of the family Chrysomelidae. Both the adult and the larval lifestages of the beetle feed on the plant, and all lifestages of the beetle can be found on, or at the base of the plant. The introduction of these beetles, their establishment, population growth and dispersal has significantly impacted purple loosestrife populations in Ontario, and in other Canadian provinces and US states.
