The Ambrosia Beetle Megaplatypus mutatus: A Threat to Global Broad-Leaved Forest Resources

Abstract

We provide scientists and decision-makers with up-to-date information on Megaplatypus mutatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Platypodinae), a forest insect native to South America that has invaded other regions. Emphasis is given to information that may prove relevant for the development of early detection, containment and management programs and improved risk analyses. The increase in global movement of people and goods, coupled with expected climatic scenarios, suggests that M. mutatus may arrive and establish populations in new areas. The major impact of this forest pest has always been reported in exotic tree species, even within its native range. The absence of a coevolutionary history with ‘naïve’ host trees is a relevant factor when analyzing and understanding the magnitude of the problem posed by this beetle and fungi associated with it. Notably, among preferred hosts are the widely planted Eucalyptus and Populus spp., facilitating the invasion of this insect into new regions and posing a threat to commercial forestry.