Question:

The bio‐control agent for control of lantana (Lantana camera) weed is ____.

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For Lantana control, remember: Teleonemia (Leaf feeder) and Ophimyia (Seed feeder). Both were introduced to India for weed management.
  • Ophimyia lantanae
  • Bacillus lantanae
  • Rhizobium spp.
  • Helicoverpa armigera
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
Lantana camara is an invasive alien weed that has devastated forest understories across India. The question asks to identify a biological agent (insect) used to control its spread.
Detailed Explanation:

Bio-control Strategy: Using natural enemies (insects or pathogens) from the weed's home range (South America) to limit its population in its new environment.

Ophimyia lantanae: Also known as the Lantana seed fly. It is a small fly whose larvae develop inside the lantana fruits (berries) and eat the seeds. By destroying the seeds, it significantly reduces the plant's ability to spread to new areas.

Other Agents: While the lace bug Teleonemia scrupulosa is perhaps the most famous lantana control agent in India, Ophimyia lantanae is a well-established and correct alternative from the given list.

Other Options: - Bacillus lantanae: A non-standard name; microbes are rarely the primary control for Lantana in India. - Rhizobium: Is a beneficial nitrogen-fixer, not a weed control agent. - Helicoverpa armigera: Is a major generalist agricultural pest (bollworm), not a specific bio-control agent for weeds.

Step 2: Final Answer:

The bio-control agent for Lantana camara is the seed fly Ophimyia lantanae.
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