Anselmella kerrichi – A new pest on the reproductive reduction of an Endangered tree (Syzygium parameswaranii) of semi-evergreen Forests of the Western Ghats, India

Abstract

Syzygium parameswaranii (Myrtaceae) is an endemic and endangered tree species of the Western Ghats, India. The population of this tree has severely affected by several factors including its reproductive inefficiency. Anselmella kerrichi infestation has serious consequences in S. parameswaranii in which, the host has not displayed any noticeable symptoms during the early stages and very difficult to identify. During flowering, A.kerrichi oviposit the eggs inside the flowers and affected the seed formation of the trees of Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary. About 75-93% of the fruits were observed as under-developed and the larva feeding the ovary and ovules which affects the fruit set and seed formation. Further, this infestation reduces the reproduction and further survival of the species in the wild.