Early Detection Pest Advisory 2007: Identifying and managing the Erythrina Gall Wasp

Abstract

The erythrina gall wasp (EGW) was first detected in the U.S. on Oahu, HI, in April 2005. It was found on the remaining Hawaiian Islands in less than six months and now seriously threatens survival of native coral (wiliwili) trees in Hawaii's dryland forests. The wasp was detected in South Florida in October 2006, further demonstrating its invasive capabilities and confirming the expectation that arrival to the U.S. mainland was imminent. Native and non-native Erythrina (coral trees) throughout North America and Mexico should be considered threatened; EGW populations increase rapidly and result in severe galling and defoliation. Tree mortality has been observed within one to two years. Identifying how this gallforming insect is spread and developing methods for early detection and rapid response are crucial to limiting host mortality.

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Citation

U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service Forest Health Protection, R-5 and Southern Research Station 2007. Early Detection Pest Advisory 2007: Identifying and managing the Erythrina Gall Wasp. Science Update SRS-012. United States Department of Agriculture, Southern Research Station. [Brochure].