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Natural PredatorsBoth larval and adult chironomids are an important component of food webs in aquatic systems. Natural predators of chironomids include fish, predatory macroinvertebrates, amphibians, turtles and waterbirds. Invertebrate predators include insects from the families Plectoptera, Ephemeroptera, Corixidae, Trichoptera and Odonata. In an experiment to determine the potential biological control efficacy of three species of Odonata, against Polypedilum nubifer, Arena and Calver (1996) found that the dragonfly Hemicordulia tau consumed up to 55 larval midge/day at a density of 10 000 per metre square. These results warrant further investigation into the possible use of this predator to assist in controlling nuisance midges. Midges form
a major component of the diets of fish in many parts of the world
(Mackey 1979; Rieradevall et al 1994) and laboratory studies have
shown that larval midges reduce their activity and growth in the
presence of predatory fish (Macchiusi and Baker 1992). In Australia,
little work has been conducted on midge predation by fish. However,
Hurst (2004) evaluated several fish for the control of mosquitoes
and midges, and found that two species from the Gudgeon family (Eleotridae)
in Queensland preyed on larval midges under laboratory conditions.
Gudgeons are closely allied with the goby family (Gobiidae) and
in south Western Australian the Swan River Goby (Pseudogobius olorum)
is a species that may prey on midges. Another fish worth investigating
as a potential biological control agent is the Western Pygmy Perch
(Edelia vittata). The use of local Western Australian species of
fish and invertebrates as an effective control strategy for larval
midges may need to form part of an integrated strategy and may be
of particular benefit in constructed wetlands. Further research
is needed to provide input into how best to design constructed wetlands
to maximise the effects of natural predators. It should be noted
that permission to stock fish in natural wetlands in Western Australia
must be obtained from the Department of Conservation and Land Management
and the Department of Environment. |
Updated : 23 June, 2009 |