First report of the ambrosia beetle, Amasa parviseta (Curculiondae: Scolytinae), in South Africa

Abstract

Worldwide introductions of non-native bark and ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Scolytinae) are increasing, with several species now capable of attacking living trees and introducing pathogenic fungi having been recorded in naïve habitats. Here we provide the first record of the exotic Amasa parviseta Knížek & Smith 2024 in continental Africa, based on four specimens collected across the Western Cape province of South Africa. This species is known to primarily colonise stressed or dying Eucalyptus and other Myrtaceae species. While no impacts have thus far been documented locally on commercially grown Eucalyptus, the species’ known ability to vector pathogenic fungi in other regions highlights its potential threat to not only South Africa’s commercial forestry industry but also its native species of Myrtaceae. We recommend targeted monitoring of this non-invasive species and investigations into its symbiotic fungi for potential phyto-pathogenicity. The discovery of this potentially harmful exotic species in South Africa underscores the importance of ongoing surveillance for non-native scolytine beetles to ensure early detection, proper risk assessment, and phytosanitary interventions to prevent establishment and mitigation of possible negative impacts.