Abstract
Abies religiosa (Pinaceae) is native to mountains of central and southern Mexico and western Guatemala, A. hickeli is found only in Mexican states of Veracruz and Oaxaca. Fir forests grow at altitudes of 2000 to 3600 m and account for only 0.16% of the total area of the country. Megastigmus (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) larvae damage up to 57% of the seed production of Cupressaceae, Taxodiaceae and Pinaceae. We examined 8,809 seeds of A. religiosa and A. hickeli and found damage caused by an insect identified as Megastigmus sp. This is the first report of Megastigmus in seeds of Abies religiosa in the state of Veracruz and the first in A. hickeli, considered an endangered species. Data over three years revealed infestations between 8.56% and 10.55%. Our results establish a basis for monitoring Megastigmus population in the zone and for taking preventive management measures in case of increased damage to the seeds.
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