Stephen Pawson

Using Differential Responses to Light Spectra As a Monitoring and Control Tool for Arhopalus ferus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) and Other Exotic Wood-Boring Pests

ABSTRACT Several longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) and bark beetles (Scolytinae) have been accidentally introduced to New Zealand and are now widespread and abundant. In particular Arhopalus ferus (Mulsant) represents a significant quarantine risk for export timber. Because of this risk timber is fumigated with methyl bromide. Six different light traps baited with different colors (yellow, red, green, white, UV-black light [UV-BL], and UV-black-light-blue [UV-BLB]) were investigated for their population monitoring potential and as a push-pull (incorporating mass trapping) alternative control technique. UV-BLB light traps captured an order of magnitude more A. ferus (122 individuals per night) than yellow light traps (eight individuals per night). The bark beetles Hylurgus ligniperda (F.) and Hylastes ater (Paykull) were most attracted to UV-BL lights that captured 2–4 times more beetles than traps baited with other wavelengths. Results suggest that light traps provide a sensitive method for population monitoring. The responses of these wood borers and bark beetles to different colored light traps provide an opportunity to apply a push-pull control technique. The management of these species could be improved by minimizing the visual attractiveness (push) of wood processing facilities through a conversion to low intensity yellow site lighting, combined with the strategic placement of UV light traps for mass-trapping of residual populations (pull). Light management on its own is unlikely to eliminate the quarantine risk entirely; however, it is likely to reduce populations substantially and contribute toward the aim of reducing methyl bromide use.

Critical issues facing New Zealand entomology

Here, we identify current high-priority issues in New Zealand entomology. These ‘critical issues’ were defined by being of national entomological interest, and in urgent need of research or attention. The issues were derived in consultation with the Entomological Society of New Zealand members and as part of a workshop at the 62nd New Zealand Entomological Society Conference. We present a list of nine priority areas (presented here without any ranking priority). These areas are: 1. conserving indigenous invertebrate diversity; 2. limiting predator pressure exerted by exotic vertebrate predators; 3. limiting the effects of invasive invertebrates, especially Vespula wasps in honeydew beech forests; understanding the influence of pesticides and pathogens on honey bees; 4. maintaining and enhancing efficient biosecurity systems to keep out invasive pests and diseases; 5. enhancing support for taxonomy; 6. enhancing entomological teaching, training and support for entomology graduates; 7. utilising the hidden knowledge of retired entomologists; and 8. supporting amateurs in entomology. For each of these topics we briefly discuss the state of the current situation or knowledge gaps. We consider this a road map to enhance entomology in New Zealand.

Back from extinction: Rediscovery of the Canterbury knobbled weevil Hadramphus tuberculatus (Pascoe 1877) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), with a review of its historical distribution

Abstract The Canterbury knobbled weevil, Hadramphus tuberculatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Molytini), was once widespread in the Canterbury plains, foothills and fringing ranges, ranging from Oxford in the north to Waimate in the south. Habitat degradation, reduction in host plant numbers through grazing and predation by rodents are thought to be responsible for the decline in its numbers and distribution. In December 2004, more than 80 years since the last sighting of H. tuberculatus in 1922, a single individual was found at Burkes Pass Scenic Reserve. This paper records the rediscovery of H. tuberculatus, reviews the historical distribution records for H. tuberculatus, discusses them with respect to changes in host plant habitat in the eastern South Island, and suggests conservation strategies to protect this and other relictual populations that might be found in future.

An experimental test of a visual-based push-pull strategy for control of wood boring phytosanitary pests.

1 International phytosanitary standards require mandatory fumigation for key wood boring beetle pests prior to export. Pressure to reduce the use of toxic fumigants has created a need for alternative control techniques.