First reports of Xylosandrus crassiusculus in Argentina and Uruguay
In South America, the presence of Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Coleoptera: Scolytidae - EPPO Alert List) has been detected only recently, with one record in French Guiana in 2009 and several records from Northern and Southern Brazil since 2012 (EPPO RS 2017/058). Recent surveys have revealed its presence in Argentina and Uruguay, thus illustrating its spread in South America. Insect specimens were collected in both countries by direct search or trapping, and their identity was confirmed by morphological and molecular analyses.
- In Argentina: 16 female specimens of X. crassiusculus were collected in 2 localities in the department of Campana on Carya illinoinensis and Populus deltoides.
- In Uruguay: 10 female specimens of X. crassiusculus were collected on Pinus taeda in 3 localities.
It is concluded that further studies would be needed to better determine the distribution of X. crassiusculus and the possible source(s) of this biological invasion in the Americas.
The situation of Xylosandrus crassiusculus in Argentina can be described as follows: Present, first specimens found in the department of Campana in 2013.
The situation of Xylosandrus crassiusculus in Uruguay can be described as follows: Present, first specimens found in the departments of Paysandú (in 2010), Rivera (2013), and San José (2015).
Sources
Landi L, Gómez D, Braccini CL, Pereyra VA, Smith SM, Marvaldi AE (2017) Morphological and molecular identification of the invasive Xylosandrus crassiusculus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) and its South American range extending into Argentina and Uruguay. Annals of the Entomological Society of America. DOI: 10.1093/aesa/sax032