Epiblema strenuana (stem-galling moth or ragweed borer)

Epiblema strenuana was introduced to Australia in 1982 as a biological control for Parthenium weed, Parthenium hysterophorus, a Weed of National Significance. The moth is a native of Mexico and southern U.S.A.. The newly emerged larvae enter the plant via the growth tips of the rosette. When they grow, the larvae move to forming galls in the plant stems. The activity of the larvae reduces the growth and seed production of the weed. It will also control other weeds in the Asteraceae - Ambrosia artimissifolia Annual Ragweed & Epiblema strenuana cocklebur.

Regional distribution

Epiblema strenuana is listed in the following regions: