Emerald Ash borer (EAB) Agrilus planipennis and the Asian longhorned Beetle (ALB) Anoplophora glabripennis, are considered to be two of the most serious invasive pests of deciduous trees in North America. Efficient monitoring traps are needed to detect and delimit new introductions and assess population densities of established infestations. Development of a monitoring trap for these pests are hindered by their complex sequence of mating behaviors.
EAB and ALB mating involves host kairomones, male produced short range pheromones, female produced short range pheromones, female produced trail and cuticular contact pheromones, along with important visual cues. A Tuesday, April 11 Cambridge Entomological Club presentation by Dr. Damon Crook of the USDA will discuss the complex chemical ecology of these insects and show what electrophysiological and behavioral research is currently being done at the Otis USDA laboratory with regards to identifying and testing new potential attractants and traps.
The lecture will take place at Harvard University, 26 Oxford Street, MCA 101 in Cambridge. Parking permits are available: see www.entclub.org for details. Free and open to the public.
