Xylosandrus Compactus Research Articles

The Role of Training on Uptake of Management Technologies for Black Coffee Twig Borer (BCTB) and Coffee Wilt Disease (CWD) among small Holder Coffee Farmers in Kayunga District, Uganda

The Role of Training on Uptake of Management Technologies for Black Coffee Twig Borer (BCTB) and Coffee Wilt Disease (CWD) among small Holder Coffee Farmers in Kayunga District, Uganda

First Record of the Black Twig Borer Xylosandrus compactus in Chiapas, Mexico

First Record of the Black Twig Borer Xylosandrus compactus in Chiapas, Mexico

Two invasive bark beetles Phloeosinus armatus Reitter and Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) (Coleoptera, Curculionidae: Scolytinae) newly recorded in Russia

AbstractIn 2023, two bark beetle species were recorded in Russia for the first time based on findings in Sochi: the cypress bark beetle, Phloeosinus armatus, on Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) and the black twig borer, Xylosandrus compactus, on southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), noble laurel (Laurus nobilis), and cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus). P. armatus is a Mediterranean pest attacking exclusively Cupressaceae. In Sochi, it was recorded on cypress trees in several locations, including on plants for planting imported from Italy. X. compactus is a highly polyphagous pest from East Asia. In Sochi, it has established populations in ornamental planted areas. The paper provides species descriptions with identification keys. One specimen of X. compactus from Sochi was DNA‐barcoded and compared with 31 specimens deposited in the BOLD and GenBank under the name of X. compactus. High genetic variability (>7%) was detected highlighting the difficulty of identifying ‘true’ X. compactus using DNA data. Genetically, the specimen of X. compactus from Sochi was identical to those from Italy, Spain and France. An accidental introduction with ornamental plants for planting from Italy is considered the most probable pathway of invasion of both bark beetle species into the Russian Black Sea coast of the Caucasus.

Population Dynamics of the Black Coffee Twig Borer <i>Xylosandrus compactus</i> (Eichhoff) in Robusta Coffee <i>Coffea canephora</i>

Population dynamics of Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) lifestages in Robusta coffee were evaluated at the National Coffee Research Institute, Kituza, Uganda. Results revealed that its population and incidence varied with time, with brood size being highest in December and November 2020. Eggs were maximum in December 2020 and May 2021; larvae in November and December 2020 and May 2021; pupae in July 2021 and May 2021; and, adults in December 2020 and August 2021. Dead adults, live and total pupae decreased significantly (p≤0.05) with increasing temperature (R²=0.3435, 0.5598, 0.6017, respectively); eggs and dead pupae increased significantly (p≤0.05) with increasing rainfall (R²=0.5266, 0.6349, respectively); and, dead adults and live pupae decreased significantly (p≤0.05) with increasing relative humidity (R²=0.4383, 0.3635, respectively). This information will enable monitoring and predicting population buildup, and thus IPM decisions.

First record of non-native Xylosandrus compactus and Anisandrus maiche (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in Slovenia.

The introduction of non-native organisms into new areas may pose major threats to natural ecosystems. Therefore, continuous and careful national surveys for the interception of invasive non-native species are necessary. During the national survey of quarantine species in 2023, two new non-native ambrosia beetles, Anisandrus maiche (Kurentzov) and Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff), were recorded in Slovenia. Anisandrus maiche was recorded in three locations in the eastern part of Slovenia, with a total of 386 individuals. Three individuals of Xylosandrus compactus were collected in one location near the port of Koper. We discuss the possible pathways of introduction and dispersal.

Infestation of Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on big-leaf mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) in nursery

Swietenia macrophylla is one of the important commercial tree species, widely being cultivated in farmlands in India due to its high market demand, attractive wood colour, and quality. The present study was conducted at Research Nursery, ICFRE-IWST, Bangalore from April 2021 to March, 2022. A hundred mahogany (1-year old) plants were heavily infested with stem borer, Xylosandrus compactus. Application of Beauveria bassiana at the concentration of 1x108 spores/ml showed promising results in the management of the stem borer and caused more than 80% adult mortality in the nurseries. Key words: mahogany, Swietenia, borer, nursery and growth

Major Pathogens Affecting Carob in the Mediterranean Basin: Current Knowledge and Outlook in Italy.

The main pathogens affecting the carob (Ceratonia siliqua) tree in the Mediterranean basin are described in this overview. The most widespread diseases periodically occurring in carob orchards are powdery mildew (Pseudoidium ceratoniae) and cercospora leaf spot (Pseudocercospora ceratoniae). The causal agents of "black leaf spots" (e.g., Pestalotiopsis, Phyllosticta and Septoria spp.) are responsible for symptoms similar to those previously mentioned for foliar diseases, but are reported in carob orchards at a negligible frequency. Likewise, canker and branch diebacks caused by fungal species belonging to Botryosphaeriaceae are almost never recorded. Among the rots of wood tissues that may compromise old carob specimens, "brown cubical rot" caused by Laetiporus sulphureus is the most widespread and recurrent issue; this pathogen is also well-known for producing edible fruit bodies that are appreciated for pharmaceutical and industrial purposes. On the other hand, "white rots" caused by Fomes and Ganoderma species are less common and reported for the first time in this review. Gall-like protuberances on twigs of uncertain aetiology or tumors on branches associated with Rhizobium radiobacter are described, although these symptoms are seldom detected, as they are also observed for necrotic leaf spots caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. ciccaronei. A worldwide list of pathogens not yet recorded but at high risk of potential introduction in Italian carob-producing areas is also provided. Finally, concerns related to new phytopathogenic fungi vectored by the invasive Xylosandrus compactus ambrosia beetle are addressed. All the described pathogens could become limiting factors for carob production in the near future, because they could be favored by high-density orchards, the increasing global network of trade exchanges, and the high frequency at which extreme events related to climate change occur globally. Thus, symptoms and signs, causal agents, epidemiology, and, whenever applicable, recommendations for disease prevention and management are provided in this review.

The use of semiochemicals for attracting and repelling invasive ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in ʻōhiʻa (Metrosideros polymorpha) forests

Abstract Early detection of invasive species is critical for preventing ecological and economic damage and maintaining ecosystem health. In Hawaiʻi, a complex of generalist ambrosia beetle species in the tribe Xyleborini (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) are threatening the health and productivity of forests and crops due to their association with tree diseases such as rapid ʻōhiʻa death (ROD) and key agricultural commodities including coffee and macadamia. We conducted trapping experiments to determine the efficacy of semiochemicals to attract and repel Xyleborini ambrosia beetles within two ʻōhiʻa (Metrosideros polymorpha) forests on the Island of Hawaiʻi. We compared the attraction of beetles to 100% ethanol and a 1:1 mixture of ethanol: methanol at Waiākea Forest Reserve and ʻŌlaʻa Forest in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. In addition, we tested the extent to which verbenone and verbenone + methyl salicylate repellents (SPLAT® Verb and SPLAT® Beetle Guard, respectively) deterred beetles from baited traps at Waiākea Forest Reserve in two separate experiments. For all invasive ambrosia beetle species, including Xyleborinus saxesenii, Xyleborus affinis, Xyleborus ferrugineus, Xyleborus perforans, Xylosandrus compactus, and Xylosandrus crassiusculus, more beetles were captured in traps baited with 100% ethanol than 1:1 ethanol: methanol. Across all species, both repellents were effective, with fewer beetles captured in traps equipped with repellents. Our research demonstrates the utility of semiochemicals for attracting and repelling invasive ambrosia beetle species in Hawaiʻi, and the potential use of these tools for early detection and management strategies.

Correction to: Black twig borer and other ambrosia and bark beetles in Israel

Correction to: Black twig borer and other ambrosia and bark beetles in Israel

Use of Yellow Sticky Trap (YST) and coffee experts (pakar kopi) reduces coffee pest attacks in Perteguhan Hamlet, Telagah Villages, Langkat District, North Sumatra

Telagah is one of the village located in Sei Binge Subdistrict, Langkat District, North Sumatra Province with coordinate 03 18 43.26” North and latitude 98 23 47.70” East Longitude. The area of Telagah village reaches 53.38 km with a height of the place reaches 823.7m above sea level. The beauty of nature with cool air through the seasons is a magnet for nature and adventures visitors because this is the ‘home’ to see how the ecosystem is extraordinary. The tour starts from a phenomenal matchmaking view, Adem Peak in Perteguhan Hamlet with coffee plantations of farmers in the middle of a wild forest so exotic, stunning and challenging. Otherwise, use of Yellow Sticky Trap (YST) catches 6 pests, such as: Hypothenemus hampeii, Xylosandrus compactus, Coccus viridis, Pseudococcus citri, Zeuzera coffeae and Sanurus indecora, while used by ethanol and methanol attractant showed variances of trapped pests. The Coffee Expert (Pakar Kopi) recorded 6 pests, 5 diseases and 28 symptoms for detecting pests and diseases in agricultural and plantation crop commodities are very helpful for human work and farmers in the future.

Effects of permethrin on ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in ornamental nurseries.

Exotic ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), such as Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Motschulsky), Xylosandrus germanus (Blandford), and Xylosandrus compactus (Eichoff) are serious pests in southeastern ornamental nurseries. Preventative pyrethroid trunk sprays effectively reduce boring damage. However, it is unclear how pyrethroids such as permethrin prevent attack. Thus, the objective was to determine how permethrin-treated bolts interact with invading ambrosia beetles. In 2022, a study with 2 independent trials was conducted in a nursery on red maple (Acer rubrum L.), bolts during March and April, respectively. The treatments were (i) nonbaited, nontreated bolt, (ii) ethanol baited bolt, (iii) nonbaited bolt + glue [painted on bolt], (iv) ethanol baited bolt + glue, (v) ethanol baited bolt + glue + permethrin, (vi) ethanol baited bolt + glue + permethrin + verbenone, and (vii) ethanol baited bolt + glue + verbenone. Ambrosia beetles trapped on glue, beetles which fell into the pail with soap solution under the bolts, and entry holes on bolts were quantified. Permethrin prevented beetle attacks but did not reduce the number of ambrosia beetles landing on the treated bolts. Verbenone reduced ambrosia beetles from landing on the bolts but did not prevent boring into bolts. The numbers of ambrosia beetles in soapy water were not significantly different among treatments. Ambrosia beetles are landing on permethrin-treated bolts but not boring into the bolts, implying that fresh permethrin residues may not be necessary for ambrosia beetle management.

An accurate, efficient, and economical identification technology for black twig borer based on species-specific cytochrome C oxidase subunit I PCR assay.

Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) is a worldwide invasive species that causes huge economic loss and environmental damage in many countries. Traditional morphological characteristics make it hard to identify scolytines due to their tiny size. Besides, the intercepted insect samples are incomplete, and the limitation of insect (larvae and pupae) morphology makes morphological identification more difficult. The majority of the damage is caused by adults and fungi that serve as nutrition for their larvae. They destroy plant trunks, branches, and twigs, affecting plant transport tissues in both weak and healthy plants. An accurate, efficient, and economical molecular identification technique for X. compactus not restricted by professional taxonomic knowledge is necessary. In the present study, a molecular identification tool based on the mitochondrial DNA gene, cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) was developed. A species-specific COI (SS-COI) PCR assay was designed to identify X. compactus regardless of the developmental stage. Twelve scolytines commonly found in eastern China, namely Xylosandrus compactus, X. crassiusculus, X. discolor, X. germanus, X. borealis, X. amputates, X. eupatorii, X. mancus, Xyleborinus saxesenii, Euwallacea interjectus, E. fornicatus, and Acanthotomicus suncei, were included in the study. Additionally, specimens of X. compactus from 17 different areas in China, as well as a specimen collected from the United Stated, were also analyzed. Results demonstrated the accuracy and high efficiency of the assay, regardless of the developmental stage or the type of specimen. These features provide a good application prospect for fundamental departments and can be used to prevent the harmful consequences of the spread of X. compactus.

Black twig borer and other ambrosia and bark beetles in Israel, Symposium 2023

Black twig borer and other ambrosia and bark beetles in Israel, Symposium 2023

Host plant species of invasive exotic insect species Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) in Istanbul - Türkiye

Host plant species of invasive exotic insect species Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) in Istanbul - Türkiye

Role of plant essential oil nanoemulsions on host colonization by the invasive ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus compactus

The development of effective control strategies targeting non-native ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae and Platypodinae) represents an emerging challenge. This is due both to their rapid spread into climatically suitable newly invaded regions rich in susceptible host plants and to the limited knowledge concerning sustainable management tools. In this context, the use of botanical insecticides, such as plant essential oils (EOs), is considered a promising option in Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies as an alternative to conventional insecticides for sustainable crop protection. Here, the impact of five EO nanoemulsions (Rosmarinus officinalis L. cultivar verbenone, Carlina acaulis L., Laurus nobilis L., Cupressus sempervirens L., and Betula alba L.) on the choice behavior, host colonization and progeny production by the invasive ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) was evaluated under laboratory and semi-field conditions. The chemical composition of tested EOs was firstly evaluated by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses. Then, EO nanoemulsions were prepared and characterized through dynamic light scattering (DLS). Tested EO nanoemulsions showed single or bimodal droplet size distributions in the nanometric range. Results highlighted a significant repellent activity of R. officinalis cv. verbenone and C. acaulis EO nanoemulsions (at 3% EO concentration). However, the trend for repellence of the R. officinalis EO against the beetle was not confirmed at decreasing EO concentrations (i.e., 1% and 0.5%). Nanoemulsions based on C. acaulis EO significantly affected the beetle choices regardless of the tested EO concentration. Indeed, in no choice bioassays, a significantly lower number of individuals started infesting stems treated with these nanoemulsions. On the other hand, no effect of the EO treatment was found on the number of offspring produced by survived beetle females. The repellence by R. officinalis and C. acaulis EOs was confirmed in semi-field conditions. Overall, our findings provide new insights toward the use of R. officinalis and C. acaulis EOs as repellents of X. compactus, suggesting their future incorporation in non-chemical strategies, such as ‘push-pull’, as part of sustainable IPM packages targeting this invasive pest.

Lethal and sublethal effects of synthetic and bioinsecticides toward the invasive ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus compactus.

Exotic ambrosia beetles are emerging widespread pests of several wild and managed trees and shrubs. Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff) is one of the most invasive species causing damage to a broad range of host plants. Little information is available on its control, including the impact of insecticides. Bioassays were conducted to evaluate the potential of four bioinsecticides and seven synthetic insecticides in controlling X. compactus. Beetle mortality and sublethal effects on tunneling, cultivation of the mutualist fungus and reproduction were assessed. Concentration-mortality curves were determined for all tested insecticides. Lambda-cyhalothrin was the most toxic insecticide, showing the lowest estimated 90% and 50% lethal concentrations (LC90 and LC50 ), followed by deltamethrin and thiamethoxam. Acetamiprid caused the highest levels of mortality and brood size reduction under extended laboratory conditions. Moreover, acetamiprid, thiamethoxam and lambda-cyhalothrin caused the greatest mortality and, together with deltamethrin, strongly affected progeny occurrence inside infested galleries and beetle brood size. Among the bioinsecticides, pyrethrins significantly affected beetle survival under laboratory conditions, but not brood size in extended laboratory bioassays. Some of the tested insecticides had significant lethal and sublethal effects only when beetles were exposed to fresher residues, highlighting differences in toxicity persistence. This study provides first baseline toxicity data for synthetic insecticides and bioinsecticides with different modes of action and origin toward X. compactus, and the first evidence that several insecticides can cause multiple sublethal effects on this pest. These findings can help in building suitable integrated pest management packages against this pest. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Histological characterization of the ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff, 1875) female as an important destroy pest on Mitragyna speciosa

Histological characterization of the ambrosia beetle Xylosandrus compactus (Eichhoff, 1875) female as an important destroy pest on Mitragyna speciosa

First Record of Xylosandrus Compactus in Seedlings and Plantations of African Mahogany (Khaya Senegalensis) in Northeastern Brazil

First Record of Xylosandrus Compactus in Seedlings and Plantations of African Mahogany (Khaya Senegalensis) in Northeastern Brazil

FUNGI OBTAINED FROM OLIVE TWIG DIEBACK AND ADULTS OF THE ALIEN PEST XYLOSANDRUS COMPACTUS (EICHHOFF) (COLEOPTERA CURCULIONIDAE SCOLYTINAE)

Olive (Olea europaea L.) is a traditional crop of great socioeconomic importance in the Mediterranean Basin. In 2021, a survey was performed in an Italian nursery located in Central Italy where unusual symptoms and widespread dieback had been observed on young potted olive trees. Twigs and branches of all plants affected by dryness showed the presence of the alien bark beetle Xylosandrus compactus. Woody tissues colonized by X. compactus were transferred into the laboratory and several fungi such as Cladosporium perangustum and Neofusicoccum parvum were then identified. In addition to these species, Geosmithia pallida was also reported for the first time in Italy on this plant. Studies on this bark beetle and its associated fungi are currently in progress to further evaluate potential risks for olive cultivation. Key Words: Olea europea, fungi, bark beetles.

Alternative plant protection strategies for tomorrow's coffee

AbstractContinuous pesticide usage has negative impacts on people and ecosystems associated with coffee farms. Alternative plant protection strategies can be implemented that are sustainable for both the environment and the coffee farmer. In this review, new genomic techniques (NGTs) such as RNAi (RNA interference, using spray‐induced gene silencing – SIGS) are presented as a possible novel strategy to manage Coffea arabica pests and diseases. Exploitation of the coffee agroforestry system (AFS) is presented as another strategy, offering both plant protection and ecosystem restoration functions. Interactions within a coffee‐AFS were found to both hinder and bolster the development of some coffee pests and diseases. Biological control represents a third strategy that has been examined to‐date to combat important coffee pests and diseases (i.e., American leaf spot, black coffee twig borer, coffee berry borer, coffee berry disease, coffee leaf miner, coffee leaf rust, coffee wilt disease and green coffee scale). The astute use of RNAi, AFS and/or biological control have the potential to provide alternatives to conventional pesticides for future sustainable coffee production. However, these approaches must be compatible with the coffee farmers' local needs and accessibility and bolstered through nationwide support by advisory services and coffee authorities.