Rubus alceifolius (shrub)

Ecology Distribution Management Info Impact Info References and Links Contacts

Interim profile, incomplete information          Management Information Biological: By the end of 2007, the biological control agent Cibdela janthina (Tenthredinidae, Argidae) native to Sumatra, has been introduced and released in La Réunion Island. By the en of 2008, the agent is considered acclimated and well established. It is spreading naturally up to 900m of elevation. Impact on Rubus thickets is promising but still under evaluation, as well as natural regeneration of the flora according to Rubus regression (Dr. Thomas Le Bourgeois pers.comm., 17 February 2009).                Location Specific Management Information Mayotte   The fight against Rubus alceifolius has been going on for more than 15 years in Reunion. Many control methods have been implemented and they vary in terms of their impact on the plant and on the environment. Among the most effective methods: manual uprooting and burning of uprooted plants to avoid any risk of vegetative reproduction; cut with machete, incinerate waste and apply herbicide (Garlon®; Krenite®, Round up®) on the remaining stumps (Hivert, 2003). A biocontrol research programme was also developed focusing on the genetic diversity of R. alceifolius, the biology of its development, and the study of potential biocontrol agents. The most interesting insect selected as a biocontrol agent is Cibdela janthina (Order: Hymenoptera, Family: Tenthredinidae). After host-specificity tests in the laboratory, it was proposed to introduce Cibdela janthina in Reunion in 2006 and to proceed to study its acclimatization and its effectiveness in the natural environment (Le Bourgeois, 2006).          Management Resources/Links 1. Hivert, J. 2003. Plantes exotiques envahissantes - Etat des méthodes de lutte mise en oeuvre par l'Office National des Forêts à La Réunion. ONF Réunion.         Summary: Synthèse des méthodes de lutte employées par l'ONF à la Réunion contre une vingtaine de plantes exotiques envahissantes. 2. IUCN/SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG)., 2010. A Compilation of Information Sources for Conservation Managers.         Summary: This compilation of information sources can be sorted on keywords for example: Baits & Lures, Non Target Species, Eradication, Monitoring, Risk Assessment, Weeds, Herbicides etc. This compilation is at present in Excel format, this will be web-enabled as a searchable database shortly. This version of the database has been developed by the IUCN SSC ISSG as part of an Overseas Territories Environmental Programme funded project XOT603 in partnership with the Cayman Islands Government - Department of Environment. The compilation is a work under progress, the ISSG will manage, maintain and enhance the database with current and newly published information, reports, journal articles etc.          Results Page: 1