Russian Insects and Diseases that could Control US Waterweeds.

A search for insects and diseases which attack Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L.), waterchestnut (Trapa natans L.) and hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata Royle) that are the noxious water weeds in the US was made from the literature, taxonomic collections and through consultations with specialists. Totally, 32 insect and 7 fungi species associated with the targeted weeds were found on the territory of the former Soviet Union. Most of Insecta are Coleoptera (14 species) and Lepidoptera (7 species). Besides, 5 Diptera, 4 Trichoptera, and 2 Homoptera species were revealed. Majority of above mentioned insects and all fungi are connected with M. spicatum (28 species). particularly, three weevil species: Phytobius leucogaster, Pelenomus canaliculatus and Baqous geniculatus, which are reportedly oligophagous on Myriophyllum spp. may be considered as potential biocontrol agents.