EPA general manager of hazardous substances and new organisms, Dr Fiona Thomson-Carter says, Eucalypts are an important component of our forestry industry; and in the landscape gums provide shelter, floral nectar resources for birds and bees, erosion control on steep land, and increased biodiversity.
"The Australian eucalyptus tortoise beetle causes significant damage to susceptible species of eucalypts, or gum trees.
"The deliberate use of natural enemies to reduce pest populations — known as biocontrol — can be a very cost effective and environmentally sustainable method of combatting pests, and reduce the need for chemical insecticides.
"The applicant estimates effective biocontrol by E. daenerys could prevent $7.2 million in losses per year from the eucalyptus tortoise beetle affecting tree growth and yield," she says.
New Zealand has no native beetles of the same type as the eucalyptus tortoise beetle, and no native eucalyptus species. Laboratory tests by Scion suggest the risks to non-target related native and beneficial beetles appear to be very low.
The wasp, which grows to just 6-10mm long, is harmless to humans.
