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The borer beetle, Lagocheirus undatus, Common Name: Plumeria Borer, has the ability to destroy whole plumeira collections and trees and is a serious problem that everyone should be made aware of. Here is some information about it below.
Steve Freeland doinkmelon@... wrote:
"Aloha All,
As stated before I have been a busy boy but now it's time to share. An organization is being formed to study, document and learn controls for the below mentioned beetle. Right now in Hi., it's getting to be a significant problem at Koko crater and the University Research Station. So much so that Dr. Criley will be razing the present collection and replacing it with a new grove in the future (not the first time). The rather upsetting thing seems to be the prevalance of beetles all over now. There have been documented infestations in Fl. and I now believe Ca. The people involved in the project are looking to avoid a global pandemic before it manifests.
I'll be going to Koko Crater on tuesday next week and I'll be documenting the damage there which I will share here. I have also documented a few other spots as well. What we need from everyone is input. Mapping affected areas will help the study in telling us the distribution of he pest and which areas are most affected. Until now the beetle has been relatively unstudied and very little is known of it's lifecycle, feeding and mating habits and plumeria most at risk (it seems to prefer some over others). From past experience with this critter I can tell you that the results are devastating. Not only is your tree destroyed but any cuttings you try to save are much less likely to root because of a chemical response by the plumeria to the borer attack. I think at a minimum what everyone will benefit from here is information and knowledge at best an effective environmentally friendly control. Infestations are an alarming thing to happen to ones collection but diligence usually catches the problem well before significant damage can happen. Anyone's input is greatly appreciated. Looking forward to hearing from you all. Aloha and Mahalo for any input in advance...Steve
Lagocheirus undatus (dif: L. obsoletus) and Callidiellum rufipenne - noxious plant predators.
PPS - The Plumeria Preservation/Protection Society - is in the process of incorporation. We have a website in the works, and will be happy to provide you with an anonymous means of reporting sightings & sequelae once this is in place. We will also include (and solicit) photographs, informative updates, anecdotal reportage, progress reports, abstracts and any pertinent information regarding these invasives and the work being done to control them.
It is our mission to create public awareness of pathogens affecting Plumeria, to raise funds and develop & implement multipartite, multidisciplinary integrated study models in conjunction with entomologists, plant pathologists, geneticists, electrophysiologists, epidemiologists, tropical ecologists & horticulturists, and biochemists from all nations in an effort to develop environmentally neutral controls that can and will be utilized when outbreaks occur, regardless of where.
We are also involved in lobbying throughout the tropical world for cohesive, inclusive, cooperative INTERNATIONAL guidelines for effective plant tissue inspections in regards to importation/exportation of plumeria plants & cuttings to avoid the introduction of exotic, invasive species.
It is suggested that treatment with methyl bromide is ineffective in eradicating L. undatus (differential: L. obsoletus) and Callidiellum rufipenne once ensconced in plant tissue. Any afflicted or suspect cuttings should be destroyed.
Systemics have been reported as having little effect on feeding populations.
We are currently addressing this emergent situation, however, the presumption that this is strictly a concern in Hawai'i is completely without merit and extremely short-sighted. These outbreaks occur throughout the tropical and sub-tropical world. THIS particular overpopulation of epidemic proportion has the potential to become pandemic.
I am very sorry to say that both Dr. Criley and I agree that the only available treatment at this time is destruction of infected plants, otherwise they will in effect become "incubators" (vectors.) It is theorized that once a tree is effected, it becomes compromised either through sepsis or a specific genetic response, and even apparently "healthy" cuttings are unlikely to root or perform adequately as a graft.
PLEASE do not send afflicted cuttings to grafting nurseries, as you may be spreading the pathogen(s) by this means.
Extrapolating from studies available on other Cerambycidae, a single gravid female may produce in excess of 200 eggs.
Lagocheirus undatus has received very little research attention to date.
This a situation we are determined to CHANGE.
We'll let you know when the website is up and running. Until then, please direct your inquiries to pps_org@netscape.com"
Seedsprouter wrote:
"We hope to retain Koko Crater as a research site, since a good deal of the study will be in vivo. Dr. Criley does not wish to retain the Waimanalo collection as an incubation reservoir for L. undatus/obsoletus. Thus far we have one self-funded European team committed to the project. We need more! We've been really busy, but our website is in the works and should be up shortly.
Below please find a proposal & suggested study model that has been making its way around the globe. Feel free to circulate these.
'Exigencies are situations that demand our attention, that we ignore only at some cost. They are situations that can weaken our physical, financial, psychological, cultural, or spiritual well being. They are often considered to be problems but sometimes are really opportunities.' -Dr. Stuart Blythe, Department of English & Linguistics, Indiana University-Purdue University
AN EXIGENT ECOLOGICAL SITUATION EMERGES AT KOKO CRATER BOTANICAL GARDENS, THE RESEARCH GARDENS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAI'I WAIMANALO RESEARCH STATION (OAHU COUNTY) AND OTHER REPORTED LOCATIONS IN HAWAI'I, FLORIDA & CALIFORNIA.
It has been observed that a severe over-population of Lagocheirus undatus, differential: L. obsoletus, collectively known by the common name "Plumeria Borer," is infesting Koko Crater Botanical Gardens, the Research Gardens at the University of Hawai'i Waimanalo Research Station (Oahu County), and other reported locations in Hawai'i, Florida, and California. Significant tree morbidity and mortality has been reported.
Once significant morbid sequelae occur, secondary opportunistic overpopulations of Callidiellum rufipenne, a detritivore, increase the risks of plant mortality by feeding in concert with Lagocheirus spp.
Traditionally, a cull & burn methodology has been used to control these noxious, non-indigenous plant predators. Since this situation has reached epidemic proportions, it is suggested that the world's Plumeria producing nations work cooperatively within these unique, historically significant monocultural parameters to develop alternative, environmentally neutral controls for this and future outbreaks of "Plumeria Borer" and secondary, opportunistic infestation by other invasives in tropical and sub-tropical locations worldwide.
I. THE IMPACTS OF AN ECO-DISASTER
The term "value" is subjective in nature. Although Plumeria exports and the Lei Industry do not represent a large portion of the Hawai'i's economy, this is anticipated to change as the domestic and global demand for excellence and variety in Plumeria cultivars increases.
This plant, though introduced, is integral to the cultural perception of these celebrated islands. A Plumeria blossom, whether singular or in the form of a lei, is the single most defining image associated with the concept of "Aloha", an _expression that represents not merely a greeting and farewell, but has been explained as embracing a philosophy of beneficence, hospitality and generosity of spirit. It is inextricably linked to and emblematic of the warm welcome that one receives as a visitor to Hawai`i.
The loss of this plant population to an invasive plant predator, if one extrapolates to a worst case scenario, would be of possible consequence to the tourist industry. From a horticultural standpoint, some of the world's most extraordinary Plumeria cultivars are grown and developed in Hawai'i, through the continuing efforts of dedicated grower/hybridizers, researchers and collectors alike. The collection of cultivars and species in Koko Crater and held as University research subject assets is indeed worthy of preservation.
It is suggested that germplasm be harvested and preserved as studies are undertaken to identify controls, necrotic tissue be removed and burned and prophylactic measures be implemented.
II. ADDRESSING EXIGENCIES AS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
Exigencies present us with an opportunity to either react precipitously or utilize our resources to develop a reasoned plan of action whereby the current situation and future epidemics may be ameliorated and contained wherever they occur.
Taking into account the many variables involved in studies of this sort, for which there is no available model, it is suggested that all concerned entities consider the possible value of a multipartite, cooperative study outlined and attached herewith.
III. THE BENEFITS OF INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
These sudden overgrowths of "Plumeria Borer" population may occur in any nation where Plumeria is grown. Working toward a "solution" to this problem is a shared responsibility, as it is alleged that the increasing importation/exportation of plant material presents a very realistic mode of transport for pupating or larval L. undatus and/or L. obsoletus, as well as Callidiellum rufipenne, no matter how vigilant the oversight, treatment and inspection of said plant material is.
IV. CONCLUSION
Please consider this a plea for assistance and a call to action.
These plant predators are a threat to all Plumeria producing nations - from the homeowner who loses his single beloved specimen tree, to collectors all along the continuum, to the largest hybridizing Nurseries and Botanical Gardens.
We must ALL consider an alternative to current control methodology.
A REQUEST FOR FUNDING, DONATIONS OF NECESSARY EQUIPMENT, VOLUNTEERS AND A CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
(Submission details for abstracts to be determined.)
DATE: 12 June, 2006
SUBJECT PATHOGENS:
1. Lagocheirus undatus, Coleoptera: Cerambycidae. (Voet), 1806. Common Name: Plumeria Borer
Differential: Lagocheirus obsoletus, Coleoptera: Cerambycidae. Common Name: Plumeria Borer
2. Callidiellum rufipenne, Coleoptera: Cerambycidae. (Motschulsky.) Common Name: Japanese Longhorn(ed) Beetle, Small Japanese Longhorn(ed) Beetle, Japanese Cedar Longhorn(ed) Beetle
SUBJECT HOST: Plumeria spp. and cultivars
SITES OF INFESTATION: Koko Crater Botanical Gardens, Honolulu, HI, USA, Research Gardens, University of Hawai'i Waimanalo Research Station, Oahu County, HI, USA, reported areas throughout Hawai'i, Florida and California
STUDY SITE: Koko Crater Botanical Gardens, Honolulu, HI, USA
CONTACT: [e-mail:info@PlumeriaPreservation.org]
A MULTIPARTITE/MULTIPHASIC STUDY PERFORMED CONCURRENTLY TO IDENTIFY ENVIRONMENTALLY "NEUTRAL" BIOLOGICAL or CHEMICAL CONTROLS FOR LAGOCHEIRUS UNDATUS, dif. LAGOCHEIRUS OBSOLETUS and CALLIDIELLUM RUFIPENNE:
A systematic approach to emergent invasive pest over-population, secondary opportunistic infestation and subsequent plant morbidity & mortality in a uniquely sensitive tropical ecosystem.
This study represents an international, cooperative, multidisciplinary effort to preserve historically significant horticultural landmarks and contain the spread of noxious introduced plant predators.
SUGGESTED RESEARCH AND PARTICIPATING SECTORS: LAGOCHEIRUS UNDATUS, dif. L. OBSOLETUS
KOKO CRATER BOTANICAL GARDENS, HAWAI'I
I. HORTICULTURAL
A. Germplasm preservation and propagation.
1. Healthy plant tissue must be preserved and grown in sterile greenhouse facilities or in vitro while studies are undertaken to address and control the infestation.
2. Harvested tissue should be inspected for co-morbid pathology.
3. Necrotic tissue should be removed and destroyed wherever encountered.
4. "Incubator" landscape trees in the public domain should be evaluated as to whether they can be preserved.
II. ENTOMOLOGICAL/ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL
A. Integrated observational in vitro studies.
1. Determine seasonality, life cycle, feeding specificity, and reproductive rates/habits of subjects.
2. Determine susceptibility to B.t. (Bacillus thuringiensis var. san diego) infection in actively feeding larvae.
3. Determine susceptibility to chemical treatment in actively feeding larvae.
B. Olfaction in subjects.
1. Identify attractant pheromones through application of GC-EAD.
2. Determine specificity of pheromones and associated behaviors induced.
3. Integrate results with team IV.
III. ENTOMOLOGICAL/EPIDEMIOLOGICAL/HORTICULTURAL
A. In vivo census studies.
1. Determine variability and census of insect populations in host plant Plumeria rubra and other Plumeria spp. using tunnel traps or black light traps.
2. Isolate and release native Cerambycidae.
B. Native controls studies.
1. Identify subject specimens that may be infected by native fungals, entomophagous nematodes, ants or parasitoid wasps.
2. Isolate & study native parasites.
3. Develop in vitro breeding program to increase populations of native bio-controls.
4. Develop delivery systems.
C. Prophylaxis
1. Determine effectiveness of various vacuum-pressurized injection devices.
2. Inoculate effected trees with B.t. var. san diego or effective chemicals on a regular basis to be determined.
B. Develop and implement a Sentinel Tree Program for early detection of spreading population.
IV. ENTOMOLOGICAL/BIOCHEMICAL/ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL/FORESTRY
A. Determine whether symptomatic, stressed or senescent trees of host Plumeria spp. and cultivars emit volatile chemical compounds which attract subjects.
1. Analysis (GC/Mass Spec) and chemical synthesis of attractant.
2. Determine effectiveness of attractant as semiochemical bait.
3. Conjoint in vivo studies with team II.
V. ECOLOGICAL/EDUCATIONAL
A. Oversight.
1. Review all methodology to determine possible impact on native Cerambycidae and any other native insect populations.
B. Develop educational materials for public distribution.
C. Develop educational seminars for APHIS PPQ inspectors.
VI. ECONOMIC
A. Determine whether substantive tree loss will be impactful to the state's economy.
Steve Freeland wrote:
"Hadn't heard any definates on the Koko situation but I know that the RS is a goner. I visited with Dr C. about a month ago with Ken J from Australia and I was floored by the amount of damage at the station. It's rather weird how some trees were unscathed and others were stumps. Unfortunately there is a gall wasp invasion that is a worse epidemic right now and they are getting the most attention. There are tons of landscape trees all over that have the galls all over. I mean everywhere. I'll get a firm handle on how bad it is tuesday when I go to Koko % wise. Hopefully I'll get some decent pics. I'm bringing my SLR with some great Macro lenses so we will see. I also found it odd that JL mentioned it in his book as an "occasional" nuisance. Probably true because well-maintained trees are much less susceptible. It's the uncared for trees that get attacked. The problem is if it reaches epidemic proportions the beetles will look elsewhere for food meaning, more than likely, healthy trees. One thing that we have going for us is larval development time. Although at first they can easily go unnotticed, by the time you see the damage they have yet to pupate so they can be easily eradicated. It's just catching them before they pupate to the adults that we have to worry about. We simply need to know more about there lifecycle. I'm not even sure if the adults feed on plumeria. I have a feeling they are nocturnal because I have never seen one during the day but a lot lies unanswered. When it boils down to it I guess all trees in HI and elsewhere are susecptible. How likely is it going to happen to those trees.. don't know. For the diligent grower probably very rarely. Giving the beetles a large biomass, however, increases the likelihood proportionately. Better to take care of it now than later...Aloha...Steve"
Steve wrote:
"Aloha All,
Got back from Koko yesterday and have been working on getting some pics to everyone. Sad to say that I was hard pressed to find a single tree which was not affected by the borers. All the plumeria I saw showed signs of borer damage in varying degrees. I got some good pics of the Stem Borer Larvae and C. Ruffipiene (JLHB). I think the latter (as suggested by a cohort) is a secondary detritovore or one that feeds on the plumeria after it hits the ground. They probably don't actively attack the plumeria but rather are opportunistic in nature. Some pics are very sad to look at. C'est la vie. Here's the link to the bucket the pics are in...Aloha...Steve"
"May I mention and warn everyone that HI is not the only place the borers have become ensconced. This is a global problem. You are just as likely to get infested cuttings from Florida or California. Don't be fooled into thinking that this is only Hawaii's problem. They are already on the mainland and have been firmly entrenched in florida for as long as they have here. The reason we are raising the issue is because it is threatening a historical landmark and the islands have an isolated environment so it's much like the perfect lab. For everyone else thinking that by not buying cuttings from Hawaii will leave their collections safe you are mistaken. Remember the best control for these are diligence and observation. Check your new cuttings daily, observe your collections...Pay attention..That's it. Destroy any and all infested material. Call authorities and report bad cuttings (these #s will be available to all soon) and don't be afraid to tell someone straight up that the cuttings you sold me are infested. Even if you have to have a feedback war on e-bay. Remember all your feedback and replies are posted for all to read so it won't ruin any stellar reputations.It would actually bolster yours. By insinuating that it is only our (HI) problem is not only inaccurate but misleading to everyone that reads a post like this. DO NOT BE AFRAID OF CUTTINGS FROM ANYWHERE."
Here is an update about the situation at Koko Crater as of May, 2007:
Dr. Richard Criley wrote:
Borers continue to infest plants at the City & County botanical garden in Koko Crater. I wouldn't say it is out of control, but it does depend on how stressed the plants are. I've not been out there this spring. We have had a dry winter, and I do not know whether the plants are receiving sufficient irrigation. When stressed, they are more susceptible to the borers. Outside of occasional pruning, I don't know that the City is doing much to minimize the problem.
Steve Freeland wrote:
...no it's not under control. I was there last week with Ken J. from Australia and an aquaintance of Dr. Criley named James and the borers are not under control nor do I believe they are actively trying to control them. Like last year, I was hard pressed not to find a single tree in Koko without some borer damage on it. I do not know which Koko Pat went to but the one I visited is infested. A couple trees are bare dead and most have branches littering the ground with diseased branches in various stages of decopomposition. The only thing I know is that the grounds crew is spreading more mulch around (probably makes the perfect incubators with the branches they cover) and using roundup to control weeds. Yes the trees are full of leaves and this is turning out to be an epic year out there for blooms (it was amazing) However, I don't see any "active" control being taken. It's unfortunate that some people feel it isn't a problem and just don't care because it won't effect them. It's sad to see a major grower on the islands publish a book that says it's not a problem because he sees a chunk of his business disappearing and would be stupid to say otherwise. No organized clean up has been undertaken. but myself and a few others I know have done "minis." I have also lost all interest in pursuing research due to lack of interest by just about everyone. A few friends and I had everything ready to go. A research facility, some funding, a web site and people willing to study the problem and a luke warm response to downright apathy and denial was received. I just hope that one day it does not turn out to be like the gall wasp infestation out here...we noticed it one year, didn't think it was going to be a big problem and this year there is not one Wiliwili tree or any of it's relatives on the island. Just a seed bank at the department of agriculture and UH. Aloha...Steve"
Here are a couple more pictures of borer damage that I found:
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