Galerucella Beetle Larvae – 6/17/11

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/17/11

Observation Time: 5:05 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Dam

Common Name: Galerucella beetle larvae

Scientific Name: Galerucella calmariensis (or G. pusilla)

Comments: Galerucella beetles eat only purple loosestrife, an invasive exotic weed that has been displacing native wetland plants and reducing biodiversity. The Neponset River Watershed Association has been “ranching” and releasing Galerucella beetles, and they are now showing up in Sharon.

More Information: Neponset River Watershed Association