Bioecological studies on Tradescantia fluminensis (Commelinaceae) and its natural enemies, in Parana State.

Abstract

Tradescantia fluminensis (Commelinaceae) is an invasive and suppressing plant of the natural regeneration of native forests in New Zeeland. This work conducted a preliminary search of the natural enemies and bioecological studies on the plant in Paraná State, particularly at the Metropolitan Region of Curitiba (RMC), where this species has natural occurrence with others plants of the same family. The vegetal and entomological materials were collected in four Districts of the RMC and were evaluated, analyzed and conducted preliminary studies in laboratory and inside Green House – Agrarian Science Division of the Federal University of Paraná in Curitiba. Studies were conducted on root growing and biomass of the plant. During the period 2003/4 and 2004/5 were colleted 43 species of insects associated to this plant. Five candidates’ species demonstrated potential value for Biological Control of T. fluminensis; four species of the family Chrysomelidae and one species of Thrips.