Improving detection tools for emerald ash borer (Coleoptera: Buprestidae): comparison of multifunnel traps, prism traps, and lure types at varying population densities.

The emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), is a serious invasive pest of North American ash (Fraxinus spp.) that has caused devastating mortality since it was first identified in North America in 2002. In 2012, we conducted field trapping assays that tested the efficacy of purple prism and fluon-coated green multifunnel (Lindgren funnel) traps.

A comparison of electrophysiologically determined spectral responses in six subspecies of Lymantria.

The spectral sensitivity of the compound eye in three gypsy moth species from six different geographical regions (Lymantria dispar asiatica Vnukovskij [Asian gypsy moth], Lymantria dispar japonica Motschulsky [Japanese gypsy moth], and Lymantria dispar dispar L. [North American gypsy moth]) was tested electrophysiologically in the wavelength region 300-700 nm. For all moths examined, a maximum response occurred in the 480-520-nm range (blue-green region) with a shoulder peak occurring at 460 nm.

Colonization of Three Maple Species by Asian Longhorned Beetle, Anoplophora glabripennis, in Two Mixed-Hardwood Forest Stands.

Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky), is an invasive insect that has successfully established multiple times in North America. To investigate host colonization and reproductive success (exit holes/eggs), two ALB infested forest stands were sampled in central Massachusetts, USA. Infested Acer platanoides L.

Influence of polyploidy on insect herbivores of native and invasive genotypes of Solidago gigantea (Asteraceae).

Herbivores are sensitive to the genetic structure of plant populations, as genetics underlies plant phenotype and host quality. Polyploidy is a widespread feature of angiosperm genomes, yet few studies have examined how polyploidy influences herbivores. Introduction to new ranges, with consequent changes in selective regimes, can lead to evolution of changes in plant defensive characteristics and also affect herbivores.

Effects of polyploidy on secondary chemistry, physiology, and performance of native and invasive genotypes of Solidago gigantea (Asteraceae).

The role of polyploidy in facilitating invasiveness of introduced plants has not been well explored. Examination of traits of diploid and polyploid plants in both their native and introduced ranges can shed light on evolutionary processes occurring postintroduction in invasive plants. We determined the distribution and prevalence of cytotypes of Solidago gigantea in both its native range (USA) and introduced range (Europe), and measured a suite of biochemical, physiological, and reproductive characters for plants from both continents.

Evaluation of the evolution of increased competitive ability (EICA) hypothesis: loss of defense against generalist but not specialist herbivores.

The evolution of increased competitive ability (EICA) hypothesis predicts that invasive plant species may escape their specialized natural enemies in their introduced range and subsequently evolve with a decrease in investment in anti-herbivore chemical defenses relative to native conspecifics. We compared the chemical profile of 10 populations of US native and 20 populations of European invasive Solidago gigantea. To test for differences in inducibility between native and invasive populations, we measured secondary chemistry in both damaged and undamaged plants.

Inbreeding depression and selfing rate of Ipomoea hederacea var. integriuscula (Convolvulaceae).

Inbreeding depression and selfing rate were investigated in the self-compatible vine Ipomoea hederacea to assess the variability of the breeding system. Inbreeding depression differed between populations and the magnitude varied at germination, growth (as measured by aboveground biomass), and reproductive potential. Plants from Macon County, Alabama, USA, had significant inbreeding depression (31%) at germination, but no significant inbreeding depression for aboveground biomass or number of reproductive structures (buds and flowers) at 45 d post germination in the greenhouse or in the field.

Comparative water relations of adult and juvenile tortoise beetles: differences among sympatric species.

Relative abundance of two sympatric tortoise beetles varies between drought and 'wet' years. Differing abilities to conserve water may influence beetle survival in changing environments. Cuticular permeability (CP), percentage of total body water (%TBW), rate of water loss and percentage of body lipid content were determined for five juvenile stages and female and male adults of two sympatric species of chrysomelid beetles, the golden tortoise beetle, Charidotella bicolor (F.