Potential Response of invasive woodwasp Sirex noctilio to a warming world

VILLACIDE JM.; LANTSCHNER, M. V.; CORLEY, J.C.

Orlando

Congreso; International Congress of Entomology; 2016

Entomological Society of America

Climate strongly determines reproduction, growth and development patterns of forest insects and so changes in climate can be expected to alter their populations. In the Southern Hemisphere, Sirex noctilio is a non-native woodwasp - reputedly the most important pest of non-native pine plantations-. Climate change, particularly the increase in temperature, changes in precipitation and in the frequency of extreme events can influence S. noctilio population dynamics and its management in several ways. The direct influence of temperature on the developmental rates of S. noctilio may influence their seasonal phenology and voltinism patterns. In warmer climates, emergence of S. noctilio adults, starts earlier in the season, while in colder conditions emergence starts much later and completion of the life cycle may require up to 3 years. On the other hand, temperature, precipitation, and extreme events such as droughts may also affect S. noctilio populations via its influence on the abundance and susceptibility of hosts (pines), changing their availability and spatial connectivity at landscape scale. Together, these changes may result in changes in S. noctilio population growth, dispersal capacities, and relationships with their natural enemies. By analyzing populations within the invaded range, we discuss how climate can influence (a) the size and frequency of outbreaks, (b) geographical spread rates, and (c) the efficiency of current control methods. Looking into population behavior of forest insects in the non-native range may help us better understand the ecology and management of insects under climate change scenarios.