Biocontrol

Weeds of National Significance (WoNS) are invading our valuable waterways.

To address this invasion, Mooloolah River Landcare established the Sunshine Coast Biocontrol Facility which has operated from our site at Glenview since 2017.

At our Biocontrol Facility we are currently breeding two biocontrol agents for the control WoNs pest species:

  • Leaf mining jewel beetle (Hylaeogena jureceki), for the control of Cat’s claw creeper; and
  • Madeira vine beetle (Plectonycha correntina) which attacks Madeira vine.

We undertake the sale and release of these beetles in strategic locations around our catchment.

If you would like to know whether biocontrol is suitable for your infestation and how the Sunshine Coast Biocontrol Facility can help, please contact our Projects & Community Engagement Officer, Jessica (projects@mrwl.org.au) to learn more.  

If you would like to join our small lively team of biocontrol volunteers, contact Jessica.

Want to learn more about our Bugs and Biocontrol? Our Biocontrol staff are bug-fanatics and love spreading the good word about our beneficial bugs. We provide community education events including seasonal waterbug monitoring along the Mooloolah River, and fun educational talks.

Photo: Leesa Beutel
Photo: Leesa Beutel