GASTROPHYSA-ATROCYANAE (COL, CHRYSOMELIDAE), AN AGENT FOR BIOLOGICAL-CONTROL OF THE DOCK, RUMEX-JAPONICUS (POLYGONACEAE) IN CHINA

The biology and host specificity of the beetle, Gastrophysa atrocyanea Motch were studied in the laboratory in Nanchang, China. This univoltine insect completed its immature stage in 32-39 days with adult overwintering in soil. A total of 35 plant species from 21 families were tested. Both larvae and adults attacked Rumex japonicus and Rumex acetosa with R. japonicus the main host. Larvae also attacked two Polygonom species, P. hydropiper and P. perfoliatum. But the adults are not concurrent with the two Polygonum species. Though oviposition occurred on five other plant species, none of them supported larval development. Field observations showed that G. atrocyanae caused a progressive decline in natural R. japonicus populations. Thus it is recommended as a valuable biological agent for this weed.