Biological control

Biological control of pests, weeds and diseases (pest) is an integral part of a successful Integrated Pest Management plan. Biological control is the management of a pest through the use of their natural enemies (biological control agent). A biological control agent is an organism such as a virus, insect or plant disease. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development:

works with landholders and grower/community/biosecurity groups on control
provides diagnostic services and information on prevention, management and treatment
provides biosecurity measures to prevent introduction, and to eradicate or manage current pests.

For advice on biological control search our website or contact our Pest and Disease Information Service (PaDIS).

Articles

Rabbit biocontrol: RHDV1 K5 national release

24 February 2017

The national release of a Korean strain of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus, known as RHDV1 K5 took place during the first week of March 2017.
Paterson's curse: what you should know

23 January 2014

This article contains useful information about Paterson's curse (Echium plantagineum), how to identify it and biological control agents.
Dock moth - a biological control for dock

5 March 2015

The dock moth (Chamaesphecia doryliformis) is a clearwing moth originally from Morocco.
Know what beneficials look like in your crop

31 March 2014

Beneficials are insects and pathogens that kill crop pests, they are also referred to as 'natural enemies' or 'biological control agents' of pests.
Bellyache bush control

4 October 2013

Control methods for bellyache bush (Jatropha gossypiifolia), a declared pest in Western Australia.
Mesquite control

18 October 2013

Control method for mesquite (Prosopis species) declared pests in Western Australia. Report the presence of this organism before undertaking a control measure.
Control of bush flies by dung beetles

27 September 2013

The bush fly is a native insect that has affected the lives of Western Australians since before European settlement.
Opuntioid cactus control

1 November 2013

Control methods for opuntioid cacti, declared pests in Western Australia. Report the presence of this organism if it's legal status is prohibited before undertaking a control measure.
Declared plant control handbook

1 November 2013

Recommendations for the control of declared plants in Western Australia (WA).
Biological control for declared plants

23 April 2014

This article provides information on the use of biological control agents for declared plants in Western Australia.