Damage caused by Batocera lineolata Chevrolat (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in Eucalyptus and its management in Vietnam

Abstract

The recent emergence of a new cerambycid pest in Eucalyptus plantations in Vietnam is causing concern in the forest sector. This paper confirms the identity of the new pest, assesses the damage caused in the main commercial Eucalyptus clones, and explores preliminary control options for the management of outbreaks. The pest was identified as Batocera lineolata Chevrolat based on mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 analysis. Clonal plantations of E. urophylla × E. grandis (DH32-29) had the most bole damage; E. urophylla × E. pellita (PNCTIV, U6) had low damage; and E. urophylla × E. pellita (PNCT3) and E. urophylla (PN14) were not damaged by B. lineolata. Thirty days after pesticide treatments (fipronil, carbaryl, chlorantraniliprole, chlorpyrifos ethyl mixed with trisiloxane ethoxylate) were applied to the boles of one-year-old DH32-29 trees, damage from B. lineolata was reduced by 73.4 to 77.5%. Applying Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana or Metarhizium anisopliae mixed with Tween 80 were less effective, with damage reduced by 41.3, 31.5 and 30.2%, respectively. It is suggested that clone DH32-29 be replaced with resistant clones PNCT3, PNCTIV or U6 to reduce the risk of wood loss as the pest spreads. Until more effective control strategies can be identified, insecticides provide an option for reducing damage from B. lineolata larvae