Biological Control of Invasive Species

By: Brittney Gant, Jefferson High School, Tampa

In the field of Biological Control Dr. Cuda, Associate Professor of Biological Weed Control, tries to control the invasive species in Lake Alice. With all the problems that the lake might fear it has been protected well throughout the years and should maintain that security for years to come. Some types of techniques that help control these invasive species may vary from things such as Chemical, Mechanical and Biological resources. In the form of Biological Control there are many things that can help manage invasive species, things such as herbicides and different forms of entomology. In entomology insects are released to get rid of the infestation that is caused by the persistent variety of species without hurting native life forms. In order to find the right insects a lot of research is needed. It’s necessary to know where to find the insects, and how much of the organism they should need. Dr. Cuda then begins to talk about the study of insects and how it can interact with the environment. The insects can help out and also kill crops, can be used for medical treatment, and also can be used in livestock. With all these forms of entomology it can sure help out with the biological management throughout Lake Alice and should maintain to be a nice home for the native environment.