Species discovery and revision of scale insect gallers of Leptospermeae and Chamelauceae (2009-2012)
Abstract
This project will provide a species-level study of the scale insect gallers that feed on host plants in the Leptospermeae (Leptospermum, Kunzea and relatives) and the revised and recently discovered species will be described. An interactive key to species will be generated. The project will contribute to our understanding of the plant-specific insect biodiversity of Australia and provide basic information that could be used to develop biocontrol agents for weedy species of the host group (such as Leptospermum laevigatum, a weed in Western Australia and overseas).
