At Currumbin Eco-Parkland, efforts to restore and protect the unique local ecosystem are being bolstered by the introduction of a new ally in the fight against invasive species. The Leaf-mining Jewel Beetle (Hylaeogena jureki) is playing a key role in the battle against Cats Claw Creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati), an aggressive vine that threatens the health of native forests across the region.

The introduction of the Jewel Beetles is part of a larger Ecological Restoration Plan (ERP) at the eco-parkland. While chemical treatments have been effective, the plan recognises the importance of integrating biological control methods to create a more holistic and sustainable approach to land management.

The Cats Claw problem

Cats Claw Creeper is a long-lived, woody climber that can smother native plants, block sunlight and disrupt the natural ecosystem. The vine grows rapidly and can form dense mats, preventing native vegetation from photosynthesising and ultimately leading to the degradation of entire habitats. It is particularly challenging to control due to the scale of some infestations, including one notable area within the eco-parkland’s remnant forest that has been severely impacted.

What do Jewel Beetles do?

The beetles and their larvae are particularly effective at defoliating the invasive vine, which significantly weakens the plant. By feeding on the leaves and extracting nutrients from the plant, the beetles slow the growth of Cats Claw, putting strain on its tubers and reducing the vine’s ability to spread further. While the beetles do not directly kill the plant, their actions limit its ability to reproduce, preventing the vine from seeding and continuing its invasive spread.

These small but impactful beetles are expected to provide long-term assistance in controlling Cats Claw Creeper, allowing other management techniques to be more effective and enabling a healthier environment for native species to flourish.

Looking ahead

This week, Jewel Beetles were introduced to Currumbin Eco-Parkland, and it’s hoped their populations will establish and grow, further contributing to the success of the eco-parkland's ongoing ecological restoration efforts.