Survey on Scolytidae which may be introduced with imported wood into France
A survey was carried out in France in order to detect possible new introduction of Scolytidae with wood imports. Pheromone traps (Lindgren Funnel) with 5 specific aggregation pheromones (Dendroctonus brevicomis, D. frontalis, D. ponderosae, D. pseudotsugae and Ips pini - all EPPO A1 quarantine pests) were installed in April 1997, along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts near the main ports of entry for wood imports. Traps were collected every week until the beginning of October 1997. Results showed a great diversity of Scolytidae but no exotic species was caught. The following Scolytidae were found:
Orthotomicus erosus (84%), Ips sexdentatus (EU Annex II/B - 12%), Leperesinus fraxini (1.1%), Xyleborus saxeseni (0.8%), Hylastes angustatus (0.4%), Dryocoetes autographus (0.2%). Ips typographus (EU Annex II/B), Gnathotrichus materiarius, Xylosandrus germanus (a recently introduced species), and Scolytus multistriatus (vector of Dutch elm disease) have also been found. These traps are not only attracting Scolytidae but they are also catching many other insects species (Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera) and it is pointed out that sorting is required. Among the 41 families of Coleoptera found, it can be noted that 30% of them are insect predators (and more particularly predators of Scolytidae). Important xylophagous species other than Scolytidae were found (Anobiidae, Cerambycidae, Curculionidae, Colydiidae and Tenebrionidae). It is noted that Chrysomelidae species were found, although they do not attack wood, and it is felt that this trapping programme designed for wood insects might also be able to trap Diabrotica virgifera (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) if introduced. It is concluded that this trapping programme should continue, and start earlier in the year (in March) as some species like Tomicus piniperda emerge early in the year.
Sources
Hastings, C. (1998) Les scolytes dans les bois importés - Premiers résultats de surveillance rassurants.
Phytoma - La Défense des Végétaux, no. 509, 50-52.