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Potential invasion of exotic ambrosia beetles Xyleborus glabratus and Euwallacea sp. in Mexico: A major threat for native and cultivated forest ecosystems
Lira-Noriega, Andres Soberon, Jorge Equihua, Julian
Lira-Noriega, Andres
Soberon, Jorge
Equihua, Julian
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Abstract
We analyze the invasive potential of two Asian ambrosia beetles, Xyleborus glabratus and Euwallacea
sp., into Mexico and the southern United States. The fungal symbionts of these beetles have been
responsible for damage to trees of the family Lauraceae, including Persea americana and other noncultivated
tree species on both coasts of the United States. We estimate their potential threat using
ecological niche modeling and spatial multi-criteria evaluation protocols to incorporate plant and
beetle suitabilities as well as forest stress factors across Mexico. Mexico contains higher climatic and
habitat suitability for X. glabratus than for Euwallacea sp. Within this country, the neotropical region
is most vulnerable to invasion by both of these species. We also identify a corridor of potential invasion
for X. glabratus along the Gulf of Mexico coast where most Lauraceae and native Xyleborus species are
present; dispersal of either X. glabratus or Euwallacea sp. into this region would likely lead to major
disease spread. However, the overall potential damage that these beetles can cause may be a function
of how many reproductive hosts and how many other ambrosia beetles are present, as well as of their
capacity to disperse. This work can also alert relevant managers and authorities regarding this threat.
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2018-07-05
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Nature Research
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Lira-Noriega, Andrés et al. “Potential invasion of exotic ambrosia beetles Xyleborus glabratus and Euwallacea sp. in Mexico: A major threat for native and cultivated forest ecosystems.” Scientific reports vol. 8,1 10179. 5 Jul. 2018, doi:10.1038/s41598-018-28517-4