Purple Loosestrife, Lythrum salicaria, was introduced into North America in the 1800’s. It is an invasive species that out-competes many native wetland plants decreasing much of the natural habitat and resources for wetland animals. In 1996 Roger Williams Zoo, in cooperation with the University of Rhode Island, began a biological control program. Galerucella spp., a leaf-feeding beetle was released into the wetland walk area of the zoo. Over time the Purple loosestrife population declined significantly leading to the proliferation of native wetland plants.
Fig. 1. Purple Loosestrife Flowers 
Fig. 2. Purple Loosestrife Flowers
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