Biology and host specificity of Rhinacloa callicrates Herring (Hemiptera: Miridae) and its introduction and establishment as a biological control agent of Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpiniaceae) in Australia

The North American mirid Rhinacloa callicrates Herring was studied for suitability as an agent for the biological control of the woody weed Parkinsonia aculeata L. in Australia. It was tested for host specificity against 77 plant species, as well as for predatory behaviour against two beneficial insects and eggs of two Helicoverpa spp. Rhinacloa callicratesfed and oviposited almost exclusively on P. aculeata and did not prey upon the beneficial insects nor the Helicoverpa eggs. Rhinacloa callicrates was thus considered safe, and was released across northern Australia. Rhinacloa callicrates established in Queensland but has not controlled P. aculeata.