Control
Numerous methods of control have been investigated in areas where this beetle has been introduced and causes a threat to native species and biodiversity and to the grape industry. A consideration in their control is the fact that when the beetles die they release a chemical that attracts more beetles. Methods of control include insecticides, trapping, removal of aggregates of beetles and mechanically preventing entry to buildings. Methods under development involve the investigation of natural parasites and pathogens, including the use of parasitic sexually transmitted mites and fungal diseases.
H. axyridis traps are available that contain the pheromones used by the beetles to attract each other into large gatherings. The best methods for dealing with them in private homes involve sealing openings they may enter. Sweeping and vacuuming are considered effective methods for removing them from homes though this should be done carefully so as not to trigger the defensive reaction known as reflex bleeding. A nylon stocking placed inside the vacuum cleaner's hose, secured with a rubber band, allows the beetles to be "bagged" rather than collecting inside the machine. A trap designed for indoor use was developed which attracts the beetles with a light and seals them in a removable bag.
Read more about this topic: Harmonia Axyridis
Famous quotes containing the word control:
“I think it a much wiser thing to secure for the thousands of mothers in this State the legal control of the children they now have, than to bring others into the world who would not belong to me after they were born.”
—Susan B. Anthony (1820–1906)
“If someone does something we disapprove of, we regard him as bad if we believe we can deter him from persisting in his conduct, but we regard him as mad if we believe we cannot. In either case, the crucial issue is our control of the other: the more we lose control over him, and the more he assumes control over himself, the more, in case of conflict, we are likely to consider him mad rather than just bad.”
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—Ron Taffel (20th century)