IPRL results from Melaleuca quinquenervia from three biological control insects.

A foliage-feeding weevil released in 1997

A gall forming midge released in 2008

A sap-feeding psyllid released in 2002

Attack by these agents has had the following impacts on Melaleuca quinquenervia:

• Up to 99% reduction in seed production.
• Greater than 85% reduction in the number of seed bearing trees.
• Tree biomass reduced by up to 77%.
• Field populations have become up to 84% less dense.
• Plant growth rate reduced by 50%.
• Trees are now 36.5% more susceptible to fire.
• Trees are now 30-40% more susceptible to herbicides.
• Native plant diversity has increased by up to four fold.

No biological Control

Biological control present

For more details please reference links to publications below:

Post-biological control invasion trajectory for Melaleuca quinquenervia in a seasonally inundated wetland.

Decline in exotic tree density facilitates increased plant diversity: the experience from Melaleuca quinquenervia invaded wetlands. 

Invasion of West Everglades wetland by Melaleuca quinquenervia countered by classical biological control. 

Biological control increases the susceptibility of Melaleuca quinquenervia to fire.

Attributes of naturally fallen (rained) Melaleuca quinquenervia seeds in two habitat types of South Florida wetlands.

Combining biological and mechanical tactics to suppress Melaleuca quiquenervia

Resource regulation of an invasive tree by a classical biological control agent.

Field Guide for the Biological Control of Weeds in Eastern North America/Melaleuca