Student-Run Beetle-Rearing Lab Will Fight Air Potato Vine

MIAMI (CBSMiami) – The first-ever student-run beetle-rearing lab will be in operation in South Florida.

The lab is the first student-run facility in the United States that will breed the Liliceris cheni beetle to help combat the invasive Air Potato vine that is taking over many parks and neighborhood yards.

It will be at TERRA Environmental Research Institute on SW 84 Street.

The USDA Agricultural Research Service Invasive Plant Research Lab in Fort Lauderdale will provide “Adam” and “Eve” that will be the first beetles to be part of the student-run lab.

The lab is made possible by the Miami-Dade Parks’ Natural Area Management Division, USDA and TERRA with a grant from State Farm Youth Advisory Board.

A dedication ceremony will be held May 28.

RELATED CONTENT:

• Miami-Dade College Evacuated Over Bomb Threat
• Community Continues To Mourn Loss Of Rising Star Jose Fernandez
• Healing Begins As Teammates Channel Jose Fernandez’s Fiery Spirit
• Trump Goes From Debate Stage To South Florida
• Miami-Dade Police Sgt. On Trial For Allegedly Stealing Gas Found Guilty On All 6 Counts