Yellow Starthistle Bud Weevil Bangerasternus orientalis

Bangasternus orientalis, the Yellow Starthistle Bud Weevil, attacks the flower heads thereby reducing seed production. Females lay up to 400 eggs on the developing flowers. Larval feeding on the plant's receptacle tissues reduces or eliminates seed production in the attacked flower head. Because yellow starthistle only reproduces only by seed, this agent provides an important impact toward bio-control of this weed. Releases of 105 adults are available in late May for $50.00.

Yellow Starthistle Hairy Weevil Eustenopus villosus

The Yellow Starthistle Hairy Weevil, Eustenopus villosus, is our best new insect for this poisonous weed. Adult weevils feed externally on the flowers and larvae feed within, destroying seed production. A good disperser, this agent can become widespread and have a significant impact on starthistle seed production. The Hairy Weevil is having significant impact as a bio-control agent of yellow starthistle. Releases of 105 adults are $35.00 in late June - early July.

2008 Hairy Weevil Special: Order 3 cartons and get a 4th carton free!