Abundance and diversity of beetles (Coleoptera) associated with three species of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) in Southern Louisiana

The spread of the invasive emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis; EAB) to Louisiana threatens to kill millions of ash trees. The loss of ash trees and their arthropod associates will reduce ecosystem services, leading to ecological and economic ramifications. Ecosystem services provided by arthropod communities on ash trees, such as pollination, decomposition, pest suppression, and serving as prey for other animals, are crucial for societal well-being, and have already been disrupted in areas already affected by EAB. In this study, we present data on two field seasons assessing the abundance and diversity of Coleoptera associated with three ash species—Fraxinus caroliniana (Carolina ash), Fraxinus pennsylvanica (green ash), and Fraxinus profunda (pumpkin ash)—prior to the EAB invasion in Southeastern Louisiana. Understanding the impact of EAB on ash-associated ecosystem services necessitates a comprehensive assessment of coleopteran communities, as they play integral roles in ecosystem function. In this study we describe how the abundance and diversity of Coleoptera is impacted by 1) species of ash tree, 2) the health of the ash tree, and 3) the associational effects of neighboring woody vegetation. By generating baseline data on coleopteran communities in ash species pre-EAB invasion, this study aims to provide baseline data for assessing and managing the impacts of EAB within Southeastern Louisiana's bottomland hardwood ecosystems. Our findings will inform proactive conservation strategies and facilitate the development of targeted management approaches to mitigate the impact of EAB on forest ecosystems.