Evaluate means of integrating biological control into overall management strategies for <i>Lygodium microphyllum</i>

<p dir="ltr">In 2020, a field experiment was started to look at the combined impacts of biological control and herbicide on <i>Lygodium microphyllum</i>.<b> </b>At two heavily <i>L. microphyllum</i> invaded sites with high mite and moth activity, we established 5x5m plots (72 plots total) that received an herbicide treatment (no treatment, treat in Year 1, treat in Years 1 and 2; 2% Garlon 3A, active ingredient triclopyr) and a pesticide treatment (untreated or treated to exclude agents every 4-6 weeks; Bonide Systemic Insecticide, active ingredient acephate). 10 ft tall trellises simulating trees in the field to measure the ability of <i>L. microphyllum</i> to grow with and without agents. Permanent quadrats were also installed within the plots for monitoring <i>L. microphyllum</i> cover. Additionally, these quadrats were used to quantify <i>Neomusotima conspurcatalis</i> damage.</p><p dir="ltr">Partially funded by the USDA through the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) (USDA agreement 58-6032-1-001), through the Southwest Florida Water Management District (USDA agreement 58-6032-3-003), and through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (USDA agreement 58-6032-9-008).</p><p dir="ltr"><br></p>