The two species on the left are introduced to South Africa as biological control agents. They are used succesfully for the control of silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav.), a noxious weed. The weed is known from North and South America, Australia, Egypt, Greece, India, Israel, Zimbabwe, Sicily, South Africa, Morocco and Spain. Should L. texana and /or L. defecta become established or introduced to Australia they could be confused with the Colorado Potato Beetle L. decemlineata, shown on the right. The main distinguishing feature between these species is the number of stripes on the elytra; L. decemlineata has 5 stripes on each of the elytron, L. texana has 4 stripes and L. defecta has two shorter stripes. If any of these species are found in Australia, please contact: Exotic Plant Pest Hotline Phone No.: 1800 084 881