The biology of the Jarrah leaf miner, Perthida glyphopa common (Lepidoptera : Incurvariidae)

Abstract

The jarrah leaf miner P. glyphopa causes conspicuous damage to both jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) and to flooded gum (E. rudis) in Western Australia. It may also attack other Eucalyptus species but rarely reaches high densities in them. Details of the life history and distribution are presented and processes influencing numbers in the field are discussed. These include larval parasitism (Hymenoptera); possible predation by birds; tree or understorey density or both; surface soil type; and innate resistance of certain trees to attack. A theory of outbreak initiation and subsequent decline is outlined.