April 14 – 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
UNIgreen’s JRC4 – Biodiversity, Forestry, and Agroecology
Webinar Series: Episode 6
This event, organized within the UNIgreen JRC4 Living Lab framework, brings together researchers, students, and forest practitioners to discuss.
Thematic
Trichilogaster acaciaelongifoliae (Hymenopterae: Pteromalidae) was the first biocontrol agent intentionally introduced against an invasive alien plant in more recent times in continental Europe. This small wasp promotes the formation of galls at flower and vegetative buds of the target plant, Acacia longifolia (Fabaceae), whichis one of the most widespread invasive plants along coastal areas in Portugal. The wasp was introduced in Portugal in 2015 and is now established along the coast, from the most northern location to the most southern region. Trichilogaster acaciaelongifoliae is promoting significant reductions of seed production and vegetative growth. No galls were found on non-target species. The results so far are encouraging for the management of A. longifolia, confirming the specificity and efficacy of the agent.
When?
On Tuesday, 14 April 2026, join us for an online event, from 14:00 to 15:00 CEST with expert speaker and engaging discussions.
Who should join?
Researchers, students, forest managers, and anyone curious about forest ecology and sustainability.
Speaker
Hélia Marchante
Biologist and lecturer at the College of Agriculture, within the Polytechnic University of Coimbra
As a biologist, my research is centered on the ecological dynamics of invasive alien plants and classical biological control. I hold a position as a lecturer at the College of Agriculture, within the Polytechnic University of Coimbra. I am actively involved in research activities at CERNAS (Research Centre for Natural Resources, Environment, and Society). Here, my focus remains on invasive plants, encompassing various aspects such as impact assessment, management strategies for invaded areas, and exploration of biological control methods, among other topics. Beyond academia, I engage in consultancy work, collaborating with diverse stakeholders. My involvement extends to science communication efforts, promoting environmental awareness, and spearheading citizen science projects, all with a dedicated emphasis on invasive plant species. Furthermore, I am a co-founder of the citizen science platform, Invasoras.pt, which serves as a resource for facilitating public participation in the monitoring and management of invasive plant species in Portugal.
