Possibilities for Managing Weeds Using Classical Biological Control -

Solanum elaeagnifolium

Walker Jones, R. Sforza & M.-C. Bon

European Biological Control Laboratory

ARS, USDA

Montferrier-sur-Lez, France

Overseas Biocontrol Labs (OBCL)

1. Montpellier, France

2. Hurlingham, Argentina

3. Beijing, China

4. Brisbane, Australia

From the East to the West

Why Not Use EBCL’s & Facilities to Initiate a Project in Europe?

• The are many invasive weeds from the New World

• What would be the best first target?

Solanum elaeagnafolium

To provide molecular support to ongoing projects

Molecular Biology: projects on Lepidium, olive fruit

fly, cocoa diseases, etc.

• Gene bank investigation

• Mitochondrial and nuclear markers available

• Choice of genetic marker and sequencing

•Identification, Variability, and phylogenetic signal assessments

• Analysis

Molecular Evaluation Has Begun Using Plant Samples From:

• Greece

• North & South Africa

• Australia

• Argentina

• Texas & n. Mexico

Thank You