It has been used successfully as an agent of biological pest control against the noxious aquatic plant known as alligator weed (Alternanthera philoxeroides).

This beetle is native to South America but has been imported to areas where alligator weed is a problem.

The adult beetle is 5 mm in length and black with yellow stripes on its elytra.

This beetle is established in much of the southeastern United States, where it lives on alligator weed only.

[2] The beetle has been used as a biological control of alligator weed in New Zealand.