D3468: Evaluation of a field detector for identifying ambrosia beetle susceptible trees

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 6, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

KA

Karla Michele Addesso

Research Associate Professor
Tennessee State University
McMinnville, Tennessee

Co-Author(s)

Jason B. Oliver

Research Professor of Entomology
Tennessee State University
McMinnville, Tennessee
Anju Poudel

Graduate Research Assistant
The Pennsylvania State University
State College, Pennsylvania
Christopher M. Ranger (he/him/his)

Research Entomologist
USDA-ARS
Wooster, Ohio

Ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) (ABs) are small fungus-farming beetles that attack stressed trees in nursery production. When stressed, trees emit ethanol, which is the primary attractant for these beetles. The ability to detect ethanol emission from stressed trees in the field prior to ambrosia beetle activity can provide growers the opportunity to make informed decisions about insecticide treatment plans. We assessed a portable personal gas detection device that can be used in the field to identify trees releasing ethanol. This product could be a cost and user friendly tool for IPM technicians and growers as they scout their fields. Before this tool can be recommended to a wider user base, product protocols must be developed and limitations identified.