Hydrilla Tip Mining Midge: Cricotopus lebetis Sublette (Insecta: Diptera: Chironomidae)
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Keywords

Hydrilla

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How to Cite

Cuda, J.P., Brian Coon, Emma Weeks, Judy L. Gillmore, and Ted D. Center. (2005) 2014. “Hydrilla Tip Mining Midge: Cricotopus Lebetis Sublette (Insecta: Diptera: Chironomidae): EENY054 IN211, 6 2014”. EDIS 2014 (6). Gainesville, FL. https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-in211-2005.

Abstract

This document provides a detailed profile of the hydrilla tip mining midge, Cricotopus lebetis. It covers the midge's distribution, physical description, life cycle, host plants, and its potential as a biological control agent for hydrilla. The midge larvae mine the meristematic tissues of hydrilla, disrupting shoot growth and preventing new stems from reaching the surface. The article emphasizes the importance of integrated pest management and discusses the challenges and strategies for mass rearing and release of the midge to control hydrilla infestations. First published: August 1998.

https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-in211-2005
PDF 2014

References

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Cuda JP, Coon BR, Dao YM, Center TD. 2011. Effect of an herbivorous stem-mining midge on the growth of hydrilla. Journal of Aquatic Plant Management 49: 83–89.

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Epler JH, Cuda JP, Center TD. 2000. Redescription of Cricotopus lebetis (Diptera: Chironomidae), a potential biocontrol agent of the aquatic weed hydrilla (Hydrocharitaceae). Florida Entomologist 83: 172–180.

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Stratman KN, Overholt WA, Cuda JP, Netherland MD, Wilson PC. 2013a. Host range and searching behavior of Cricotopus lebetis (Diptera: Chironomidae), a tip miner of Hydrilla verticillata. Biocontrol Science and Technology 23: 317–334.

Stratman KN, Wilson PC. Overholt WA, Cuda JP, Netherland MD, 2013c. Toxicity of fipronil to the midge, Cricotopus lebetis (Sublette). Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health-Part A-Current Issues 76: 716–722.

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