The Effect of Damaging Pagria ussuriensis(Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on Kudzu in Yuzawa, Akita Prefecture, Japan

Abstract

Kudzu (Pueraria montana var. lobate) is an Asian plant, which is also present in other countries and has become problematic. Attempts at the biological control of kudzu have been unsuccessful because of its unclear relationship with other species. This study examined the effects of a native leaf beetle (Pagria ussuriensis) on kudzu in Japan. It was revealed that P. ussuriensis damages kudzu leaves on the lower half of the stem, thus reducing plant water content. Furthermore, the feeding pattern of P. ussuriensis depends on the trichome density of kudzu leaves.

Further study is needed to clarify whether P. ussuriensis functions as a biopesticide or is a pest of cultivated legumes.