Gall fly is minimising spread of invasive weed

Image Caption: Gall fly larvae inside Chromolaena stem.

The gall fly (Cecidochares connexa) has been observed to causing damage to Chromolaena, an invasive weed in the Inland Baining area of East New Britain.

Gall fly is feeding on the stem of the invasive weed by causing galls or swelling which is stunting the weed and reducing its ability to reproduce seeds.

Gall fly was introduced to PNG in 1994 as a biological control agent by team of researchers.

The invasive weed invades native plants, damages agricultural land and obstructs roads.

Image Caption: Chromolaena weed stunted by Gall fly larvae.