Interannual Variability and Seasonal Dynamics of Evapotranspiration of Arundo donax L. and Populations of its Biological Control Agent (Tetramesa romana)

Giant reed (Arundo donax L.), a woody grass native to the Mediterranean, has become cause of concern for national water security in its invaded range arid southwestern United States, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The main objective this study was provide first, landscape-level estimates use by giant reed. utilized eddy covariance method quantify evapotranspiration (ET) throughout 2014 2015 growing seasons along Rio Grande River Eagle Pass, Texas. We monitored ET concurrently with implementation biological control program targeting Daily rates were strongly associated phenology reed, as estimated degree day accumulation. Monthly higher each month active season (May–October) than 2015. Consequently, seasonal (DOY 121-304) substantially (842 mm) (625 even though wetter. Cumulative rainfall from May October 188 264 mm 2015, respectively. Our indicated that reduction could be attributed presence specialist insect agent, stem-galling arundo wasp (Tetramesa romana). In we observed 28.6% (May), 53.5% (June), 44% (July) increase number wasps captured sticky traps previous year. Additional studies are needed conservation economic benefits Basin.