Biology and distribution of Agrilus macer LeConte (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), a species associated with sugarberry ( Celtis laevigata Willd.) mortality in the southeastern USA

摘要: Agrilus macer is attacking sugarberry trees in the southeastern USA, a region from which few specimens have been previously collected. Despite at high densities, this species appears to be secondary pest, and there no evidence it carries harmful fungal pathogens. Because genus Curtis includes significant forest pests, association of poorly known species, macer LeConte, with unexplained (Celtis laevigata Willd.) mortality USA cause for alarm. This study sought investigate distribution biology A. determine whether primary observed tree mortality. Through series studies literature searches, we documented aspects while focusing on egg-laying behavior searching pathogens associated oviposition sites. widely distributed throughout southern but most records are Texas Louisiana. Egg mass densities up 1.2 masses per 10 cm2 (equivalent ~ 1.9 eggs cm2) were trunks, branches, exposed roots dying C. our area, an average 16 mass. Fungi isolated discolored sapwood around larval galleries did not defoliation, dieback, or inoculation trials. Our findings suggest that pest does transmit pathogens.