May 3, 2000
The Environmental Risk Management Authority is calling for submissions on an application to import a tiny gall fly to control mist flower or Ageratina riperia in the Auckland and Northland regions. This is the first application for the importation of a biological control agent to deal with a weed species since the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act came into effect in July 1998.
The Environmental Risk Management Authority is responsible for controlling the introduction of new organisms and genetically modified organisms into New Zealand and the importation and manufacture of hazardous substances.
The Auckland Regional Council (ARC) is applying to introduce and release the mist flower gall fly, Procecidochares alani (Steyskal) to combat the mist flower which it says is a serious plant pest in conservation areas in Northland and is becoming a problem in Auckland. The ARC says mist flower grows densely near streams and in the semi shade of forests where it forms a dense mat, limiting forest regeneration and is a threat to rare plants that grow in these areas.
They believe the gall fly, with a wing span of just 8mm will lay its eggs only in the mist flower plants and the larvae will feed on the stems of the plant reducing its growth, and thus allowing the native species to regenerate.
Submissions on this application close with ERMA New Zealand on Wednesday 7 June. The application and supporting data can be viewed at the Office of ERMA New Zealand in Wellington or can be viewed on this site.
For further information contact:
| Bas Walker Chief Executive Ph (04) 473-8426 |
Peter Burke Public Awareness Advisor Ph (04) 473-8426 |