Abstract
The feeding behavior and host specificity of Coniatus tamarisci F. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Hyperini) were studied in southern France. The results of the experiments and observations supported the potential of this species and its safe use as a biological control agent for saltcedar, Tamarix ramosissima Ledebourg, in North America. Adults and larvae fed on saltcedar buds, leaves, and stems during the entire vegetative phase of the host plant, limiting its growth. Under no-choice, starvation conditions on caged plants, adult feeding and oviposition were restricted to species in the genus Tamarix and to the closely related Myricaria germanica (L.) Desvaux, also belonging to the family Tamaricaceae. The heaviest damage and oviposition were on saltcedar, and feeding was light on T. aphylla (L.) Karsten. Among the species tested, the weevil completed its development only on saltcedar and M. germanica and not on T. aphylla or T. parviflora DC.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
