Progress 01/21/14 to 09/30/17
Outputs
Target Audience:Forest and land managers, foresters, farmers, land owners, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, nursery producers, wood products industry, lumber producers, homeowners Changes/Problems:
Nothing Reported
What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has led to the development of a Biological Control Demonstration Site in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which can be used to illustrate how to successfully release, evaluate and assess introduced biological control agents of hemlock woolly adelgid. In addition, opportunities have been provided to graduate students and scientists to attend forest-related meetings and other professional meetings to enhance their knowledge and skills in biological control. At least six graduate students and four undergraduate students have received extensive laboratory and field experience in biological control research. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated through outreach activities (Ag Day and other public-oriented functions), presentations at workshops and seminars, and presentations at professional scientific meetings. In addition, results have been disseminated via scientific publications (such as journal articles, proceedings, etc.) and the internet. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue Biological Control Activities against Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: 1) Continue efforts to assess the multiple biological control agents released against hemlock woolly adelgid on eastern hemlock at the Biological Control Demonstration Site. Continue to assess the collective impact of these natural enemies against hemlock woolly adelgid, as well as to use the site for educational purposes. 2) Cooperate in a multi-state approach to assess the establishment of L. nigrinus - the assessment project was funded by another USDA FS grant but supplemental assistance will be provided from this current grant to enable more sites to be sampled and assessed. 3) Continue to release and assess predators of hemlock woolly adelgid. 4) Continue to assess seasonality and impact of established natural enemies following large whole-tree canopy releases at Blackberry Farm and Elkmont, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 5) Continue to process samples, and to compile, analyze and interpret data to fully assess the results of this project. Continue Biological Control Activities against Emerald Ash Borer: 1) Continue phenology growth chamber study. 2) Continue monitoring EAB phenology. 3) Continue to monitor and sort pan samples for EAB parasitoids; confirm identifications of parasitoids with colleagues. 4) Present aspects of EAB research in Tennessee at the Tennessee Entomological Society Meeting to be held in October in Nashville, TN and at other professional meetings, such as the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species in January 2017 in Annapolis, MD, and at the Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America meeting to be held in March 2017, Memphis, TN. 5) Summarize and tabulate results; share information and cooperate, as necessary, with collaborators. 6) Meet with cooperators at the USDA Interagency Research Forum in Annapolis, MD, to discuss ongoing and future research efforts. 7) Continue to assess recovery and establishment of S. agrili and T. planipennisi through dissection of felled trees. 8) Continue to assess the overwintering, and numbers of generations each year, of introduced parasitoids. 9) Continue to monitor and record tree health characteristics on selected trees at each release site. Continue Biological Control of Kudzu Bug 1) Continue to assess natural enemies of kudzu bug eggs. 2) Continue to assess incidence of the fungal pathogen Beauveria bassiana. 3) Assess role of alternate plants in incidence of kudzu bug and its natural enemies.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The following information details the major activities completed during 2017. Efforts primarily focused on biological control directed against three invasive pests - hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae, emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, and kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria, Research was initiated on brown marmorated stink bug. (1) Characterize and evaluate the effect of established natural enemies. A Biological Control Demonstration Site established near Cosby, TN, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to be monitored for recovery and establishment of introduced predators of hemlock woolly adelgid. This Site serves as an educational tool for land managers interested in incorporating biological controls into their management programs against hemlock woolly adelgid. A cooperative multi-state, regional approach continues to assess establishment and impact of Laricobius nigrinus in areas where it has been released and recovered. States involved are MA, NC, TN and VA. Three sites (Blackberry Farm, Elkmont Campground, and Biological Control Demonstration Site) are used in this study. Data collected in 2017 quantified predation of L. nigrinus in a field setting and enhanced understanding of the impact of this predator on hemlock woolly adelgid across a wide geographical area. Data were shared with other cooperators, who compiled, analyzed, and summarized results and presented findings at various meetings. Research continues to assess establishment of three parasitoids of emerald ash borer. Low numbers of two of these parasitoids have been recovered, suggesting that its establishment in the southern US may be difficult due to asynchrony of adult parasitoids with larvae of emerald ash borer. A fungal pathogen (Beauveria bassiana) and an egg parasitoid (unknown sp.) provide excellent management of kudzu bug in eastern Tennessee. The egg parasitoid was found for the first time in Tennessee in 2017. (2) Exploration, importation, and assessment of natural enemies for invasive pests. Efforts continue to assess the introduced L. osakensis, which was collected by Dr. Pat Parkman near Osaka, Japan, in December 2015, against hemlock woolly adelgid and to enhance existing laboratory populations for mass rearing. We also will be conducting geographical synchrony and compatibility studies on an exotic parasitoid, Spathius galinae, of EAB. This project is a cooperative effort with researchers in Massachusetts, New York, and Tennessee. (3) Implementation, evaluation, and enhancement (e.g., conservation) of biological control. HEMLOCK WOOLLY ADELGID As part of efforts to implement biological control against invasive species, the Lindsay Young Beneficial Insects Laboratory (LYBIL) at the University of Tennessee continued to rear and release natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid. LYBIL currently rears three predators of the hemlock woolly adelgid: Sasajiscymnus tsugae, Laricobius nigrinus and Laricobius osakensis. S. tsugae and L. nigrinus have been reared at LYBIL since 2003 and 2005, respectively. L. osakensis has been reared at LYBIL in 2011 and from 2013 to the present. LYBIL currently rears three predators of the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA): Sasajiscymnus tsugae, Laricobius nigrinus and Laricobius osakensis. Sasajiscymnus tsugae - In 2017, 18,438 adults of S. tsugae were reared; and two releases were made at North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area and Cumberland Gap National Historic Park. Laricobius nigrinus - As of late October, over 3000 L. nigrinus beetles have been harvested in the laboratory; and six releases have been made, so far, in Catoosa Wildlife Management Area, Great Smoky Mountains NP, Savage Gulf and Rugby State Natural Areas, and Daniel Boone NF in Kentucky. Laricobius osakensis - About 1000 L. osakensis adults have been harvested as of late October; and two releases have been made, at Pogue Creek Canon State Natural Area and in Kentucky on state lands. Most beetle emergence in the lab occurs in November and early December. Based on past results, we expect to produce at least 19,000 adult Laricobius by early 2018. EMERALD ASH BORER (EAB) Following its discovery in Tennessee in 2010, introduced natural enemies of EAB (Spathius agrili, n ≈ 24,000, and Tetrastichus planipennisi, n ≈ 84,000) were released in eastern Tennessee. To assess recovery, pan traps were collected biweekly during colder months (Nov. 2016 through Jan. 2017, Jan. through Mar. 2017) and weekly in warmer months (Apr. through Oct. 2017). Both native and introduced parasitoids were collected from pan traps. S. agrili has demonstrated the ability to survive the winters in the south and emerge the following season, although they have been recovered in low numbers. Only 1 T. planipennisi was recovered at release sites in 2017. Phenology studies of EAB and three larval parasitoid species (S. agrili, S. galinae, and T. planipennisi) were conducted in 2017. Larval parasitoid phenology was assessed by conducting a growth-chamber study initiated May 2016 and continuing through 2017. Similar results were observed in 2016 and 2017, with only S. galinae producing an F2 generation and no species producing an F3 generation. Monitoring of remaining bolts in growth chambers will continue through 2017. The discovery of S. agrili in a release site is promising, as it indicates S. agrili, an introduced species, can overwinter and reproduce in the south. The low recovery of T. planipennisi suggests that they may not establish as readily in the southern US as in the northern US. In a growth chamber study designed to mimic recorded temperatures in the south to assess parasitoid phenology, introduced parasitoids of EAB had fairly low parasitism rates, with fewer and fewer offspring emerging with each subsequent generation. Phenological data suggest that EAB exhibit an annual life cycle in the south as opposed to the 1½ year life cycle it displays in the northern US. This one-year life cycle suggests that small widows of opportunity exist for parasitoids to find a suitable host in the southern as opposed to northern US. This difference in life cycle is the primary cause of the introduced parasitoids lack of establishment in the southern US, where parasitoids and EAB are phenologically asynchronous. These life cycles also explain the relative success of these parasitoids in the north. Low numbers of native parasitoids were collected with a total of 31 individuals across three species. Attempts to rear these parasitoids were made, but no parasitism was ever observed. KUDZU BUG Research to address kudzu bug biology and ecology, as well as the incidence of a fungal pathogen Beauveria bassiana, continued in 2017. Kudzu bug densities were lower initially in 2017, continuing the decline trend that was evident in 2016. This decline is most directly related to high infection levels of the fungus. Infection of both nymphs and adults by B. bassiana (from late August to late October) was extremely high late in 2017, but higher for nymphs. Average mortality of kudzu bug caused by B. bassiana peaked at 84% across six counties. As in 2015 and 2016, no other hemipteran species or other insect in kudzu were affected by this fungus. This high mortality of kudzu bug populations late in the season will continue to reduce overwintering populations of kudzu bug. In 2017, an unidentified egg parasitoid species was recovered from eggs from the initiation of the study on 7 Jun 2017 to 15 Sep 2017. Parasitism rates were highest at the end of June, with an average of 51% across 6 counties. Near season-long biological control of kudzu bugs within kudzu patches appears possible. With the parasitoid active from at least June - mid September and the fungus active from late August - late October, numbers can be suppressed throughout the season. These reductions also will be seen in soybean fields, as overwintering numbers of kudzu bug continue to decline or remain low.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Benton, E. P., J. F. Grant, R. J. Nichols, R. J. Webster, J. S. Schwartz, and J. K. Bailey. Risk assessment of imidacloprid use in forest settings on the aquatic macroinvertebrate community. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (June) DOI: 10.1002/etc.3887.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Environmental Space Shift: Predicting the Potential Invasion of Kudzu Bug in North and South America and Determining its Climatic Preference
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Britt, K., A. Michael, G. J. Wiggins, S. D. Stewart, and J. F. Grant. Kudzu bug in Tennessee: A fungal surprise. Proceedings of the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 10-13, Annapolis, MD
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Palmer, J., G. Wiggins, J. Gould, and J. F. Grant. 2017. Limitations to establishment of introduced parasitoids of emerald ash borer: A southern perspective. Proceedings of the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 10-13, Annapolis, MD.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., E. Benton, P. L. Lambdin, and J. F. Grant. Short-term detection of imidacloprid in streams following treatment of eastern hemlock. Proceedings of the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 10-13, Annapolis, MD.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Britt, K., A. Michael, G. J. Wiggins, S. D. Stewart, and J. F. Grant. Kudzu bug: Tales from the forest edge. 26th Southern Appalachian Forest Entomology and Pathology Seminar, March 2-3, Newland, NC.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Britt, K., J. F. Grant, S. D. Stewart, and G. J. Wiggins. On the case: Learning kudzu bug habits in east Tennessee. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America, March 12-15, 2017, Memphis, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Grant, J. F. Pest management of invasive species: Strengthening agriculture in China and the U.S. Opening Ceremony and Inaugural Workshop of Sino-US Center for Agricultural Plant Biology, Nanjing, China, June 11-13 (Invited)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Grant, J. F., K. Britt, and A. Michael. Kudzu, kudzu bug, and biological control in agriculture and forests: A tale of two systems. Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, July 25-28, 2017, Melbourne Beach, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Palmer, J., J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, and J. Gould. On the clock: The phenology of emerald ash borer and its parasitoids in a southern climate. Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, July 25-28, 2017, Melbourne Beach, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Liang, W., J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, and S. Stewart. Environmental space change: Predicting the potential invasion of kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria) in North and South America and determining its climatic preference. Tennessee Entomological Society Annual Meeting, October 5-6, 2017, Nashville, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Michael, A., K. Britt, J. Grant, S. Stewart, and G. Wiggins. The reckoning: Kudzu bug population responses to a natural enemy and drought conditions. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America, March 12-15, 2017, Memphis, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Michael, A., S. Stewart, B. Ownley, G. Wiggins, and J. Grant. Infamy: The rise and fall of the kudzu bug in Tennessee. Tennessee Entomological Society Annual Meeting, October 5-6, 2017, Nashville, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Palmer, F., J., G. Wiggins, J. Gould, and J. F. Grant. Climate conundrum: Limitations to the establishment of parasitoids of emerald ash borer in a southern environment. 26th Southern Appalachian Forest Entomology and Pathology Seminar, March 2-3, Newland, NC.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Palmer, J., J. F. Grant, and G. J. Wiggins. From without and within: Phenology of the emerald ash borer and its introduced parasitoids in a southern climate. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America, March 12-15, 2017, Memphis, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, J. P. Parkman, and P. L. Lambdin. Biological control of forest pests in Tennessee. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America, March 12-15, 2017, Memphis, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Hensley, P., J. F. Grant, M. T. Windham, P. L. Lambdin, and G. J. Wiggins. Dispersal and risk assessment of walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis, in forests Entomological Society of America National Meeting, Denver, CO.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Michael. A., K. Britt, S. Stewart, G. J. Wiggins, B. Ownley and J. F. Grant. Guardians of the kudzu: The impact of natural enemies and drought on kudzu bug populations. Entomological Society of America National Meeting, Denver, CO.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Liang, W., L. Tran, R. Washington-Allen, G. J. Wiggins, S. Stewart, J. T. Vogt, and J. F. Grant. Ecological niche shift: Predicting the potential biological invasion of kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria) in North and South America Entomological Society of America National Meeting, Denver, CO.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Palmer, J., J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, and J. Gould. Seasonal synchrony: The phenology of emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis, and its parasitoids in a southern climate. Entomological Society of America National Meeting, Denver, CO.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Britt, K., C. Standish, J. Grant, and K. Vail. Managing brown marmorated stink bug in and around homes. University of Tennessee Extension Publication.
|
Progress 10/01/15 to 09/30/16
Outputs
Target Audience:Biological control efforts in forested systems target forest and land managers, foresters, land owners, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, nursery producers, wood products industry, lumber produers, etc. Biological control efforts in urban systems target homeowners, landowners, consumers, businesses, and the general public. Biological control efforts in agricultural systems target farmers, landowners, consumers, producers, farm workers, etc. Changes/Problems:The major problem encountered in 2016 resulted from the drought and lack of water, which may have impacted development, survival and reproduction of introduced natural enemies. This problem is not expected in 2017. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project has led to the development of a Biological Control Demonstration Site in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which can be used to illustrate how to successfully release, evaluate and assess introduced biological control agents of hemlock woolly adelgid. In addition, opportunities have been provided to graduate students and scientists to attend forest-related meetings and other professional meetings to enhance their knowledge and skills in biological control. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated through outreach activities (Ag Day and other public-oriented functions), presentations at workshops and seminars, and presentations at professional scientific meetings. In addition, results have been disseminated via scientific publications (such as journal articles, proceedings, etc.) and the internet, at well as to graduate students via classroom instruction and hands-on learning opportunities. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Continue Biological Control Activities against Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: 1) Continue efforts to assess the multiple biological control agents released against hemlock woolly adelgid on eastern hemlock at the Biological Control Demonstration Site. Continue to assess the collective impact of these natural enemies against hemlock woolly adelgid, as well as to use the site for educational purposes. 2) Cooperate in a multi-state approach to assess the establishment of L. nigrinus - the assessment project was funded by another USDA FS grant but supplemental assistance will be provided from this current grant to enable more sites to be sampled and assessed. 3) Continue to release and assess predators of hemlock woolly adelgid. 4) Continue to assess seasonality and impact of established natural enemies following large whole-tree canopy releases at Blackberry Farm and Elkmont, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 5) Continue to process samples, and to compile, analyze and interpret data to fully assess the results of this project. Continue Biological Control Activities against Emerald Ash Borer: 1) Continue phenology growth chamber study. 2) Continue monitoring EAB phenology. 3) Continue to monitor and sort pan samples for EAB parasitoids; confirm identifications of parasitoids with colleagues. 4) Present aspects of EAB research in Tennessee at the Tennessee Entomological Society Meeting to be held in October in Nashville, TN and at other professional meetings, such as the USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species in January 2017 in Annapolis, MD, and at the Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America meeting to be held in March 2017, Memphis, TN. 5) Summarize and tabulate results; share information and cooperate, as necessary, with collaborators. 6) Meet with cooperators at the USDA Interagency Research Forum in Annapolis, MD, to discuss ongoing and future research efforts. 7) Continue to assess recovery and establishment of S. agrili and T. planipennisi through dissection of felled trees. 8) Continue to assess the overwintering, and numbers of generations each year, of introduced parasitoids. 9) Continue to monitor and record tree health characteristics on selected trees at each release site. Continue Biological Control of Kuduz Bug 1) Continue to assess natural enemies of kudzu bug eggs. 2) Continue to assess incidence of the fungal pathogen Beauveria bassiana. 3) Assess role of alternate plants in incidence of kudzu bug and its natural enemies.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The following information details the major activities completed and specific objectives met during 2016. Efforts primarily focused on biological control activities directed against three invasive pests - hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae, emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis, and kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria, Research also continued on natural enemies of walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis (a vector of Geosmithia morbida, which causes thousand cankers disease on black walnut). (1) Characterize and evaluate the effect of established natural enemies. A Biological Control Demonstration Site established near Cosby, TN, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM) continues to be monitored for recovery and establishment of introduced predators of hemlock woolly adelgid. This Site will serve as a resource and educational tool for other land managers interested in incorporating biological controls into their management programs directed against hemlock woolly adelgid. A cooperative multi-state, regional approach continues to assess the establishment and impact of Laricobius nigrinus in areas where it has been released and recovered. States involved are MA, NC, TN and VA. Three sites (Blackberry Farm, Elkmont Campground, and the Biological Control Demonstration Site) are used in this study. Data collected in 2016 quantified predation of L. nigrinus in a field setting and enhanced understanding of the impact of this predator on hemlock woolly adelgid across a wide geographical area. (2) Exploration, importation, and assessment of natural enemies for invasive pests. Efforts continue to assess the introduced L. osakensis, which was collected by Dr. Pat Parkman near Osaka, Japan, in December 2015, against hemlock woolly adelgid and to enhance existing laboratory populations for mass rearing. We also will be conducting geographical synchrony and compatibility studies on an exotic parasitoid, Spathius galinae, of EAB. (3) Implementation, evaluation, and enhancement (e.g., conservation) of biological control. As part of efforts to implement biological control against invasive species, the Lindsay Young Beneficial Insects Laboratory (LYBIL) at the University of Tennessee continued to rear and release natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid. LYBIL currently rears three predators of the hemlock woolly adelgid: Sasajiscymnus tsugae, Laricobius nigrinus and Laricobius osakensis. S. tsugae and L. nigrinus have been reared at LYBIL since 2003 and 2005, respectively. L. osakensis has been reared at LYBIL in 2011 and from 2013 to the present. The following information details specific rearing and release activities during 2016: Sasajiscymnus tsugae - Seven releases totaling 37,892 adults were made from May 4 to July 7. Release sites were located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Savage Gulf State Natural, and Catoosa and North Cumberland Wildlife Management Areas. Laricobius nigrinus - Releases, so far in 2016, have been made in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, Rugby/Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation property, Catoosa and North Cumberland Wildlife Management Areas, Daniel Boone National Forest (KY), and in NC and SC (USFS releases). Laricobius osakensis - Releases, so far in 2016, have been made in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, South Cherokee National Forest, Catoosa and North Cumberland Wildlife Management Areas, Laurel-Snow and Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Areas, Daniel Boone National Forest (KY), and in NC and SC (USFS releases). EMERALD ASH BORER (EAB) Following its discovery in Tennessee in 2010, open releases of introduced natural enemies of EAB (Spathius agrili, n ≈ 24,000, and Tetrastichus planipennisi, n ≈ 84,000) were conducted in eastern Tennessee. To assess recovery, pan traps were collected biweekly during colder months (Jan. through Mar. 2016, Nov. 2015 through Feb. 2016) and weekly in warmer months (Apr. through Oct. 2016). Both native and introduced parasitoids were collected from pan traps in these sites. S. agrili has demonstrated the ability to survive the winters in the south and emerge the following season. However, no T. planipennisi have been observed to successfully overwinter in these studies. Phenology studies of EAB and three larval parasitoid species (S. agrili, S. galinae, and T. planipennisi) were conducted in 2016. Bark removal at two sites in Knox County, TN, showed that EAB undergo a one-year life cycle. Larval parasitoid phenology was assessed by conducting a growth-chamber study initiated May 2016. F1 individuals of all parasitoid species emerged, and mean development time ranged from 44 days (T. planipennisi), to 45.5 days (S. galinae), to 47.7 days (S. agrili). Only S. galinae had F2 individuals emerge, with an average development time of 56 days. Monitoring of remaining bolts in growth chambers will continue through 2016. Between April 1 and September 30 2016, releases of S. agrili, S. galinae, and T. planipennisi were made at several sites. Total number of parasitoids released during 2016 is ca. 30,000 at Bethel Valley Road, ca. 26,000 at Indian Creek Campground, and ca. 28,000 at Coalfield. On October 19, 2016, 74 specimens of suspected O. agrili, S. agrili, and T. planipennisi were given to Juli Gould for identification. Of these specimens, none was identified as S. agrilior O. agrili. However, one specimen was identified as a female T. planipennisi. The discovery of S. agrili in a release site is promising, as it indicates S. agrili, an introduced species, can overwinter and reproduce in the wild. The number of native parasitoids, especially Spathius species, also is encouraging, as they may parasitize EAB and exert some control. Current research investigating the parasitism of EAB by native parasitoids, as well as their co-existence with introduced parasitoids, is on-going. This information will be useful to those working with biological control of EAB to help them better understand the ecology of these parasitoids, and how to more effectively use them in IPM programs. Results suggest that EAB in the south exhibits an annual life cycle (is development of this pest and its introduced parasitoids in the Southern U.S. asynchronous?). Site variation may affect synchrony of EAB and parasitoid broods. S. agrili may be more synchronous with EAB in the South than Tetrastichus, mainly because this parasitoid has no diapause, so warm periods in winter may cue emergence, and low numbers of suitable host larvae are present during spring emergence period. These results illustrate differences between EAB and parasitoid phenology in the Southern and Northeast U.S. Data suggest the need for climate matching for new parasitoid species for warmer climates. KUDZU BUG Research to address kudzu bug biology and ecology, as well as the incidence of a fungal pathogen Beauveria bassiana, was expanded in 2016. Kudzu bug densities were lower initially in 2016, possibly a result of high infection levels by the fungus in 2015, which lowered the numbers of adult kudzu bugs overwintering. Infection of both nymphs and adults by B. bassiana was extremely high late in 2016 in numerous counties in eastern and southeastern Tennessee. Nymphal mortality caused by B. bassiana reached 100% at several sites late in the year, and adult mortality was generally ca. 50 to 60%. As in 2015, no other hemipteran species or other insects in kudzu fields were affected by this fungal pathogen. This high mortality of kudzu bug populations late in the season will continue to reduce overwintering populations of kudzu bug.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Palmer, J., J. Grant, P. Parkman, G. Wiggins, and J. Vogt. 2016. Beneath the bark: Phenology of emerald ash borer and its introduced parasitoids in Tennessee. Tennessee Entomological Society, October 6-7, Knoxville, TN.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Benton, E. P., J.F. Grant, T. C. Mueller, R. J. Webster, and R. J. Nichols. 2016. Consequences of imidacloprid treatments for hemlock woolly adelgid on stream water quality in the southern Appalachians. Forest Ecology and Management 360: 152-158; doi: 10.1016/j.foreco.2015.10.028.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Benton, E. P., J. F. Grant, R. Cowles, R. J. Webster, R. J. Nichols, A. Lagalante, and C. Coots. 2016. Assessing relationships between tree diameter and long-term persistence of imidacloprid and olefin to optimize imidacloprid treatments on eastern hemlock. Forest Ecology and Management 370: 12-21. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2016.03.044.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Benton, E. P., J. F. Grant, R. J. Webster, R. S. Cowles, A. F. Lagalante, R. J. Nichols, and C. I.
Coots. 2016. Hemlock woolly adelgid (Hemiptera: Adelgidae) abundance and hemlock canopy health numerous years after imidacloprid basal drench treatments: Implications for management programs. Journal of Economic Entomology 10.1093/jee/tow160.
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Britt, K., J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, and S. D. Stewart. 2016. Prevalence and localized impact of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana on kudzu bug (Megacopta cribraria) in eastern Tennessee. Journal of Entomological Science 51(4):321-324.
doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.18474/JES16-26.1
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, J. R. Rhea, A. E. Mayfield, A. Hakeem, P. L. Lambdin, and A. B. Lamb Galloway. 2016. Emergence, seasonality, and hybridization of Laricobius nigrinus, an introduced predator of hemlock woolly adelgid, in the Tennessee Appalachians. Environmental Entomology, DOI:10.1093/ee/nvw128.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Britt, K., C. Standish, J. Grant, and K. Vail. 2016. Invasive Pest and Fall Home Invader: Kudzu Bug. University of Tennessee Extension Publication.
https://extension.tennessee.edu/publications/Documents/W358.pdf.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Under Review
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Standish, C., K. Britt, J. Grant, and K. Vail. 2016. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. University of Tennessee Extension Publication. (In Review)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Britt, K., J. F. Grant, S. D. Stewart, and S. D. Powell. 2016. Kudzu bug in Tennessee: Responding to a new invasive species. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2016, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, J. R. Rhea, A. Hakeem, and P. L. Lambdin. 2016. A field-based method to estimate densities of Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), an introduced predator of hemlock woolly adelgid (Hemiptera: Adelgidae). Florida Entomologist 99 (4).
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Benton, E. 2016. Benefits and Risks of Imidacloprid-based Management Programs for Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. Ph.D. Dissertation, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 193 pp.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Britt, K. 2016. An Ecological Study of the Kudzu Bug in East Tennessee: Life History, Seasonality, and Phenology. M.S. Thesis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 99 pp.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Grant, J. F., A. Windham, F. Hale, P. L. Lambdin, M. T. Windham, and G. J. Wiggins. 2016. Observations on the "Walnut Alert" experience: The nuts and bolts of a regional outreach plan. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2016, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Grant, J. F., G. J. Wiggins, P. L. Lambdin, M. T. Windham, and P. Merten. 2016. Distribution and dispersal of walnut twig beetle in forests. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2016, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Palmer, J., J. F. Grant, G. Wiggins, and J. Gould. 2016. Monitoring for establishment of introduced parasitoids of emerald ash borer in Tennessee. Proceedings of the 2016 Emerald Ash Borer Research and Technology Development Meeting, October 19-20, Wooster, OH (In Press)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, J. P. Parkman, J. Webster, E. Benton, R. Rhea, and P. L. Lambdin. 2016. Influence of Record Cold in the Southeastern U.S. on Hemlock Woolly Adelgid and Its Introduced Natural Enemies. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2016, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G., J. F. Grant, J. Palmer, and J. Gould. 2016. Emerald ash borer and its parasitoids in the Southeast. Proceedings of the 2016 Emerald Ash Borer Research and Technology Development Meeting, October 19-20, Wooster, OH (In Press)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G., J. Grant, and P. Lambdin. 2016. Biological control as an ecologically-based pest management technique in forest systems. Proceedings: The XXV International Congress of Entomology, Orlando, FL, September 25-30 (doi: 10.1603/ICE.2016.93691).
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Benton, E. P., J. F. Grant, T. C. Mueller, R. J. Webster, B. Nichols, and J. Schwartz. 2016. Impact of hemlock woolly adelgid imidacloprid treatments on water quality and aquatic macroinvertebrate communities. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Oral)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Britt, K., J. F. Grant, S. Stewart, G. J. Wiggins, and S. D. Powell. 2016. Ecology and life history of kudzu bug in east Tennessee. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Oral)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Ferguson, J., R. An, P. Grewal, and J. F. Grant. 2016. Reduction via induction? Assessment of pest and disease resistance induced by entomopathogenic nematodes in tobacco and soybean. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Oral)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Grant, J.F., F. A. Hale, A. Windham, G. J. Wiggins, and P. L. Lambdin. 2016. The nuts and bolts of Walnut Alert: Using outreach to keep the nuts in the trees. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Invited Paper)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Liang, W., A. Hakeem, J. F. Grant, and G. J. Wiggins. 2016. Remote sensing as a tool to assess biological control of hemlock woolly adelgid. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Poster)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Lowery, H., J. F. Grant, D. Hensley, J. L. Jurat-Fuentes, L. Hietala, and D. Kopsell. Investigation of glycocidal content of Stevia rebaudiana and its impact on fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda). Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Oral)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Palmer, J., G. J. Wiggins, and J. F. Grant. 2016. Monitoring and evaluating establishment of introduced parasitoids of emerald ash borer in Tennessee. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Poster)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Grant, J.F., P. L. Lambdin, G.J. Wiggins, and R. J. Webster. 2016. IPM in agricultural, forest and natural systems: The good, the bad, and the bugly. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Invited Paper)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, P. L. Lambdin, and J. P. Parkman. 2016. From predators to parasitoids: Biological control of invasive insect pests of Tennessee forests. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Invited Paper)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., E. P. Benton, J. F. Grant, and P. L. Lambdin. 2016. Evaluating short-term detection of imidacloprid in streams following soil applications in hemlock systems. Southeastern Branch, Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting, March 13-16, Raleigh, NC. (Poster)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Grant, J. F., F. A. Hale., A. S. Windham, P. L. Lambdin, G. J. Wiggins, and M. T. Windham. 2016. 'Walnut Alert', thousand cankers disease, and black walnut: Can outreach crack a tough nut? International Congress of Entomology/ Entomological Society of America, September 25-30, Orlando, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Hadziabdic, D., R. Gazis, E. Oren, W. Klingeman, L. Vito, M. T. Windham, L. Poplawski, P. L. Lambdin, J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, P. A. Wadl, B. Ownley, M. Staton, J. K. Moulton, P. Merten, J. W. Pscheidt, W. Cranshaw, M.. Faccoli, J. Juzwik, M. D. Ginzel, and R. N. Trigiano. 2016. Thousand cankers disease research: The good, the bad, and the ugly. International Congress of Entomology/ Entomological Society of America, September 25-30, Orlando, FL. (Invited Paper).
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Heminger, A., A. E. Mayfield, J. S. Elkinton, G. J. Wigins, J. F. Grant, J. Lombardo, T. McAvoy, A. Tait, B. Mudder, and S. Salom. 2016. Impact assessment of Laricobius nigrinus (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), a predator of hemlock woolly adelgid. International Congress of Entomology/ Entomological Society of America, September 25-30, Orlando, FL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Salom, S., K. L. Sumpter, A. Heminger, M. N. Darr, A. E. Mayfield, J. F. Grant, J. S. Elkinton, T. McAvoy, A. Roberts, and C. C. Brewster. 2016. What do you want to hear first: The good news or the bad news about biological control of hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae (Hemiptera: Adelgidae)? International Congress of Entomology/Entomological Society of America, September 25-30, Orlando, FL. (Invited Paper)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, and P. L. Lambdin. 2016. Biological control as an ecologically-based pest management technique in forest systems. International Congress of Entomology/ Entomological Society of America, September 25-30, Orlando, FL. (Invited Paper)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Britt, K., J. Grant, G. Wiggins, S. Stewart, and J. Jurat-Fuentes. 2016. Kudzu bug seasonal phenology in eastern Tennessee. Tennessee Entomological Society, October 6-7, Knoxville, TN.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Michael, A., K. Britt, and J. Grant. 2016. Kudzu patch kids: The future of kudzu bug research in east Tennessee. Tennessee Entomological Society, October 6-7, Knoxville, TN.
|
Progress 10/01/14 to 09/30/15
Outputs
Target Audience:Biological control efforts in forested systems target forest and land managers, foresters, land owners, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, nursery producers, wood products industry, lumber produers, etc. Biological control efforts in urban systems target homeowners, landowners, consumers, businesses, and the general public. Biological control efforts in agricultural systems target farmers, landowners, consumers, producers, farm workers, etc. Changes/Problems:No major changes or problems were encountered. Due to the Polar Vortex in 2014 and additional cold temperatures in 2015, populations of the established introduced predator Sasajiscymnus tsugae, as well as the hemlock woolly adelgid, declined. S. tsugae, however, does not seem to be well adapted to extreme, consistent cold temperatures, as none was recovered in 2015. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project led to the development of a Biological Control Demonstration Site in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which can be used to illustrate how to successfully release, evaluate and assess introduced biological control agents of hemlock woolly adelgid. In addition, opportunities have been provided to graduate students and scientists to attend forest-related meetings and other professional meetings to enhance their knowledge and skills in biological control. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Results have been disseminated through outreach activities (Ag Day and other public-oriented functions), presentations at workshops and seminars, and presentations at professional scientific meetings. In addition, results have been disseminated via scientific publications (such as journal articles, proceedings, etc.) and the internet. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Objective 1. Characterize and evaluate the effect of established introduced natural enemies. 1) Continue to assess coexistence of introduced predatory beetles of hemlock woolly adelgid and assess interactions with native predatory species. 2) Continue to assess a Biological Control Demonstration Project to evaluate mass releases of multiple species of natural enemies of hemlock woolly adelgid. 3) Cooperate in a multi-state assessment of the impact of the introduced predator L. nigrinus following mass field releases on populations of adelgid and tree health. 4) Continue to investigate the use of whole-tree cages to promote and evaluate establishment, reproduction, and survival of L. osakensis. 5) Continue to assess establishment of field populations of S. tsugae and L. nigrinus. 6) Continue to assess incidence of established native biological control agents of emerald ash borer and walnut twig beetle in southern climates. 7) Assess recovery and establishment of S. agrili and T. planipennisi in barrels containing ash wood collected from release sites, as well as dissection of felled trees. 8) Finalize and field test Overwintering and Establishment Protocol for emerald ash borer using tree cages. 9) Develop and field test Preliminary Establishment Assessment Protocol. 10) Continue to monitor open release sites for establishment of egg and larval parasitoids of emerald ash borer. 11) Continue developmental studies on the parasitoid, Theocolax sp., on walnut twig beetle. 12) Continue to assess egg parasitoids of kudzu bug. 13) Continue to assess infection of kudzu bug by B. bassiana. 14) Assess impact of B. bassiana on successful emergence of kudzu bugs from overwintering sites in 2016. Objective 2. Exploration, importation and assessment of natural enemies for invasive pests. Continue to evaluate impact of multiple species complexes of natural enemies on hemlock woolly adelgid and tree characteristics using whole-tree canopy enclosures. Continue to assess the Japanese predator Laricobius osakensis against hemlock woolly adedgid in southern climates. Evaluate, release and assess a new introduced parasitoid (S. galinae) of emerald ash borer in southern climates. Investigate potential introduced species for importation and evaluations against insect pests and weeds in the new University of Tennessee Beneficial Insect Containment Laboratory. Continue to assess natural enemies of kudzu bug. Objective 3. Implementation, evaluation, and enhancement (e.g., conservation) of biological control. Continue to improve rearing methodologies for predators (emphasizing L. osakensis) of hemlock woolly adelgid; rear large numbers for field release. Continue to mass rear and release predator species against the hemlock woolly adelgid. Locate sites to establish as a field insectary for rearing large numbers of predatory beetles. Continue to investigate the use of whole-tree cages to promote and evaluate establishment, reproduction, and survival of L. osakensis. Continue and expand releases and evaluations of parasitoids against emerald ash borer. Assess new cage protocols for establishing and/or rearing parasitoids of emerald ash borer (continue to assess novel ways to enhance release and establishment). Explore enhancement of kudzu bug management by exploiting natural occurring B. bassiana.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The following information details the major activities completed and specific objectives met during 2015. Efforts primarily focused on biological control activities directed against two invasive pests - hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae, and emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis. Research also continued on walnut twig beetle, Pityophthorus juglandis (a vector of Geosmithia morbida, which causes thousand cankers disease on black walnut), as well as life history studies on a new parasitoid species, Theocolax n. sp., of this beetle, as well as a general survey for natural enemies of walnut twig beetle. Biological control activities also continued to focus on kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria. Significant results, including major findings, developments, or conclusions, and key outcomes are provided. Objective 1. Characterize and evaluate the effect of established introduced natural enemies. HEMLOCK WOOLLY ADELGID A Biological Control Demonstration Site established near Cosby, TN, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM) continues to be monitored for recovery and establishment of introduced predators of hemlock woolly adelgid. Unfortunately, the Polar Vortex in 2014 and additional cold temperatures in 2015 decreased populations of the established introduced predator Sasajiscymnus tsugae; this predator does not seem to be well adapted to extreme, consistent cold temperatures, as none was recovered in 2015. Densities of the other established introduced predator Laricobius nigrinus were low, but were present at the Site. This Site is intended to serve as a resource and educational tool for other land managers interested in incorporating biological controls into their management programs directed against hemlock woolly adelgid. Results indicate that remote sensing data may have potential to assess biological control of hemlock woolly adelgid. A cooperative multi-state, regional approach continues to assess the establishment and impact of L. nigrinus in areas where it has been released and recovered. States involved are MA, VA, NC, and TN. Three sites (Blackberry Farm, Elkmont Campground, and the Biological Control Demonstration Site) were selected and established in Tennessee in Fall 2014 and were assessed in 2015. Evidence illustrates that L. nigrinus impacts hemlock woolly adelgid populations, but two consecutive years of extreme cold temperatures in January impacted populations of hemlock woolly adelgid and also likely impacted L. nigrinus. Data will be collected in 2016 to quantify predation of L. nigrinus in a field setting and enhance understanding of the impact of this predator on hemlock woolly adelgid across a wide geographical area. We continue to assess establishment of several introduced parasitoids of emerald ash borer. Parasitoid releases have been made for several years; we continue to release two larval parasitoids (Spathius agrili and Tetrastichus planipennisi) at new release sites, while assessing establishment of these species at the older release sites. Both native and introduced parasitoids have been collected from pan traps in these sites. One adult female S. agrili was collected from a pan trap in Hamblen County, TN. Atanycolus species and Spathius species (native species) comprise the majority of parasitoids collected. Native S. floridanus was the most commonly collected parasitoid by a large margin. Late-season (October through December 2015) pan-trap samples are still undergoing processing. Some of these native species collected in pan traps may be able to parasitize emerald ash borer larvae. The discovery of S. agrili at one of our release sites is promising, as it indicates S. agrili, an introduced species, can overwinter and reproduce in the wild. The number of native parasitoids, especially Spathius species, also is encouraging, as they may parasitize EAB and exert some control. Objective 2. Exploration, importation and assessment of natural enemies for invasive pests. Dr. Pat Parkman visited Osaka, Japan, and vicinity from December 3-12, 2015, to collect L. osakensis, a predator of hemlock woolly adelgid, to enhance existing laboratory populations for mass rearing. He visited five sites during seven days and had excellent weather to collect. However, populations of hemlock woolly adelgid were scarce at most sites. Few individuals (n = 88 adults) were collected and only 86 adults successfully returned to the United States. Future trips will be more aligned with areas where hemlock woolly adelgid are present. We will be conducting geographical synchrony and compatibility studies of Spathius galinae against emerald ash borer in the southeastern U.S. Objective 3. Implementation, evaluation, and enhancement (e.g., conservation) of biological control. As part of efforts to implement biological control against invasive species, the Lindsay Young Beneficial Insects Laboratory at the University of Tennessee continued to rear and release natural enemies of the hemlock woolly adelgid. Several challenges in rearing predatory beetles during 2015 resulted from reduced food quantity and quality of their prey (hemlock woolly adelgid), which was attributed to two consecutive years of extreme cold temperatures that likely impacted populations of the adelgid. The following information details specific rearing and release activities during 2015: Sasajiscymnus tsugae - Releases: Releases from Feb. 10 to June 5 totaled 26,675. Laricobius nigrinus - Releases: Releases from Sept. 16 to Dec. 3 totaled 6,001. Laricobius osakensis - Releases: Releases from Oct. 14, 2015, to Jan. 7, 2016, totaled 7,456 beetles. EMERALD ASH BORER As part of continued efforts to implement biological control, research was expanded to improve application, assessment, and implementation of biological control tools against emerald ash borer. Specific objectives are to: 1) assess new technologies to establish and evaluate incidence and seasonal emergence of three introduced parasitoids (Oobius agrili - egg parasitoid; and Spathius agrili and Tetrastichus planipennisi - larval parasitoids), 2) evaluate alternate rearing strategies to enhance their production, rearing, and/or establishment, 3) assess incidence of native parasitoids, such as Atanycolus hicoriae, and 4) assess impact of parasitoid releases via new technologies on tree health and survival. Major findings of biological control efforts against emerald ash borer included: 1) successful overwintering of S. agrili in the southern U.S. was observed in tree cage studies at two locations, 2) large tree cages yielded highly successful overwintering of S. agrili in all tree cages at one study site, 3) artificially infesting tree cages with additional borer adults greatly enhanced parasitism and overwintering of S. agrili, 4) a Protocol to enhance overwintering and establishment of S. agrili using large tree cages was developed, 5) a Preliminary Protocol to assess establishment of S. agrili at specific release sites was developed, 6) a potential rearing-enhancing procedure for larval parasitoids was identified, and 7) no T. planipennisi were recovered from any release area or study site. KUDZU BUG Research to address kudzu bug biology and ecology was expanded in 2015. No egg parasitoids were recovered from more than 1,000 kudzu bug eggs evaluated. However, infection of both nymphs and adults by Beauveria bassiana was extremely high late in the year in numerous counties in eastern Tennessee. Nymphal mortality caused by B. bassiana reached 100% at several sites. Adult mortality was typically 50 to 60%. No other hemipteran species or other insect in the kudzu fields were affected by this fungal pathogen. This high mortality of kudzu bug populations late in the season will reduce overwintering populations of kudzu bug.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Awaiting Publication
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Benton, E. P., R. J. Webster, R. Cowles, C. I. Coots, A. Lagalante, and J. F. Grant. 2015. Imidacloprid and Its Metabolite Olefin: Multiple year persistence in eastern hemlock following treatment for hemlock woolly adelgid. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2015, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
Grant, J. F., A. Windham, F. Hale, P. L. Lambdin, M. T. Windham, R. Follum, G. J. Wiggins, and K. Nix. 2015. WALNUT ALERT: Expansion of a Regional Outreach Plan to slow the movement of thousand cankers disease. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2015, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, N. Hooie, P. L. Lambdin, and J. Lelito. 2015. Overwintering of Spathius agriliI in a Southern climate: Fact or fiction? USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2015, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
Wiggins, G. J., J. F. Grant, R. Rhea, J. Webster, E. Benton, P. Parkman, and P. L. Lambdin. 2015. Enhancing management of hemlock woolly adelgid by establishing a Biological Control Demonstration Site. USDA Research Forum on Invasive Species, January 2015, Annapolis, MD. (In Press)
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2015
Citation:
Benton, E. P., J. F. Grant, R. J. Webster, R. J. Nichols, R. S. Cowels, A. F. Lagalante, and C. I. Coots. 2015. Assessment of imidacloprid and its metabolites in foliage of eastern hemlock multiple years following treatment for hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae (Hemiptera: Adelgidae), in forested conditions. Journal of Economic Entomology doi: 10.1093/jee/tov241
Benton, E. P., J.F. Grant, T. C. Mueller, R. J. Webster, and R. J. Nichols. 2015. Assessment of imidacloprid treatments for hemlock woolly adelgid on stream water quality in the southern Appalachians. Forest Ecology and Management 10.1016/j.foreco.2015.10.028
Coots, C., P. Lambdin, J. Franklin, J. Grant, and R. Rhea. 2015. Influence of hemlock woolly adelgid infestation levels on water stress in eastern hemlocks within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, U.S.A. Forests 6:271-279; doi:10.3390/f6010271.
Hadziabdic D, P. Wadl, M. Staton, W. Klingeman, J. Moulton, J. Pscheidt, G. Wiggins, J. Grant, P. Lambdin, M. Windham, M. Faccoli, P. Merten, and R. Trigiano. 2015. Development of microsatellite loci in Pityophthorus juglandis, a vector of thousand cankers disease in Juglans spp. Conservation Genetics Resources 7: 431-433.
Lambdin, P., K. Nix, J. Grant, D. Paulsen, and P. Merten. 2015. Natural enemies of the walnut twig beetle in eastern Tennessee. International Journal of Research in Agriculture and Forestry. (2):9 PP 1-9. ISSN 2394-5907 (Print) & ISSN 2394-5915 (Online).
Yeary, W., A. Fulcher, W. Klingeman, J. Grant, and S. Xiaocun. 2015. Responses of three natural enemy species to contact and systemic insecticide exposures in confined assays. Journal of Entomological Science 50:35-46.
|
Progress 01/21/14 to 09/30/14
Outputs
Target Audience: Forest and land managers, foresters, land owners, outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, nursery producers, wood products industry, lumber producers. Changes/Problems: The major problems encountered in 2014 resulted from the 'Polar Vortex' early in the year, which greatly effected survival of natural enemies, as well as populations of invasive species. This problem is not expected in 2015. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? This project has led to the development of a Biological Control Demonstration Site in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park which can be used to illustrate how to successfully release, evaluate and assess introduced biological control agents of hemlock woolly adelgid. In addition, opportunities have been provided to graduate students and scientists to attend forest-related meetings and other professional meetings to enhance their knowledge and skills in biological control. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Results have been disseminated through outreach activities (Ag Day and other public-oriented functions), presentations at workshops and seminars, and presentations at professional scientific meetings. In addition, results have been disseminated via scientific publications (such as journal articles, proceedings, etc.) and the internet. This project is a continuation of another project. The followinghave not been previously reported because the project was not active in REEport but the researcher was still working on the project. Because of the 2013 publishing date, REEport would not allow their entry under this continuation. Hakeem, A., J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, P. L. Lambdin, F. A. Hale, D. S. Buckley, J. R. Rhea, J. P. Parkman and G. Taylor. 2013. Factors Affecting Establishment of Sasajiscymnus tsugae (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), an Introduced Predator of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Hemiptera: Adelgidae) on Eastern Hemlock (Pinales: Pinaceae). Environmental Entomology 42: 1272-1280. Hakeem, A. 2013. Assessment of Factors Affecting Establishment of Biological Control Agents of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on Eastern Hemlock in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Ph.D. Dissertation, University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Grant, J., K. J. Copley, S. D. Powell, and G. J. Wiggins. 2014. Emerald ash borer activities in Tennessee: Three years after.... Proceedings of the 55th Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, New Orleans, LA, July 23-26, 2013, pp. 32-33. Hakeem, A., J. Grant, G. Wiggins, R. Rhea, P. Lambdin, D. Buckley, F. Hale, and T. Colson. 2013. Comparative assessment of mortality of eastern hemlock in biologically-treated areas using spatial analyses. Proceedings of the 23nd USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, Annapolis, MD, January 10-13, 2012, pg. 90. Powell, S. D., K. J. Copley, and J. F. Grant. 2013. Emerald ash borer in Tennessee: A southern perspective. Proceedings of the 23rd U.S. Department of Agriculture Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, Jan. 10-13, 2012, Annapolis, MD. General Technical Report NRS-P-114, pg. 104. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Continue Biological Control Activities against Hemlock Woolly Adelgid: 1) Continue efforts to locate a suitable site to implement a Multi-tactical IPM (combining biological and chemical controls) Approach to reducing populations of hemlock woolly adelgid in a large Demonstration Area (IPM Demonstration Site) (with input from Rusty Rhea). Install, monitor, and assess the IPM Demonstration Site, as well as use it for educational purposes. 2) Continue efforts to assess the multiple biological control agents released against hemlock woolly adelgid on eastern hemlock at the Biological Control Demonstration Site. Continue to assess the collective impact of these natural enemies against hemlock woolly adelgid, as well as to use the site for educational purposes. 3) Cooperate in a multi-state approach to assess the establishment of L. nigrinus - the assessment project was funded by another USDA FS grant but supplemental assistance will be provided from this current grant to enable more sites to be sampled and assessed. 4) Continue to investigate the use of whole-tree cages to promote and evaluate establishment, reproduction, and survival of L. osakensis and S. tsugae. 5) Continue to investigate comparative assessment of mortality of eastern hemlock in biologically-treated areas using spatial analyses. 6) Continue to assess establishment of field populations of S. tsugae and L. nigrinus. 7) Continue to assess seasonality and impact of established natural enemies following large whole-tree canopy releases at Blackberry Farm and Elkmont, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 8) Continue to process samples, and to compile, analyze and interpret data to fully assess the results of this project. Continue Biological Control Activities against Emerald Ash Borer: 1) Continue to assess recovery and establishment of S. agrili and T. planipennisi in barrels containing ash wood collected from various release sites (trees were felled in 2014 and wood held through the winter). 2) Continue to assess recovery and establishment of S. agrili and T. planipennisi in barrels containing ash wood collected from various release sites (trees will be felled in Spring 2015 and wood will be held in barrels throughout the year). 3) Continue to assess recovery and establishment of S. agrili and T. planipennisi through dissection of felled trees. 4) Fell selected trees at the previous release sites to assess parasitoid recovery from releases made in 2012, 2013, and 2014. 5) In Spring 2015, all tree material used in several of the large cage studies will be cut into 0.7 m sections, and one-half of the material will be held in plastic barrels modified with ventilation and a funnel trap. These will be monitored for parasitoid emergence. Bark will be removed from other half of the material, and the removed bark and wood will be examined for parasitoids and parasitized emerald ash borer larvae. 6) In Spring 2015, ash sprouts that were caged in an earlier study will continue to be evaluated; sprouts will be cut into 0.7 m sections, and one-half of the material will be held in plastic barrels modified with ventilation and a funnel trap. These will be monitored for parasitoid emergence. The bark will be removed from other one-half of the material, and the removed bark and wood will be examined for parasitoids and parasitized emerald ash borer larvae. Parasitoid species present and percent parasitism will be documented. 7) Wood material from all completed studies will continue to be processed in Spring 2015 to determine effectiveness of a single parasitoid release compared to multiple releases of parasitoids. 8) Fell selected trees at the previous release sites to assess parasitoid recovery from releases made in 2012, 2013, and 2014. 9) In Spring 2015, all tree material used in several of the large cage studies will be cut into 0.7 m sections, and one-half of the material will be held in plastic barrels modified with ventilation and a funnel trap. These will be monitored for parasitoid emergence. Bark will be removed from other half of the material, and the removed bark and wood will be examined for parasitoids and parasitized emerald ash borer larvae. 10) In Spring 2015, ash sprouts that were caged in an earlier study will continue to be evaluated; sprouts will be cut into 0.7 m sections, and one-half of the material will be held in plastic barrels modified with ventilation and a funnel trap. These will be monitored for parasitoid emergence. The bark will be removed from other one-half of the material, and the removed bark and wood will be examined for parasitoids and parasitized emerald ash borer larvae. Parasitoid species present and percent parasitism will be documented. 11) Wood material from all completed studies will continue to be processed in Spring 2015 to determine effectiveness of a single parasitoid release compared to multiple releases of parasitoids. 12) Continue to identify other locations (at least 3 to 5) as potential release sites or sites where additional field cage studies can be implemented. 13) Release O. agrili at several of the same release sites where S. agrili and T. planipennisi were released in 2012, 2013, and 2014 sites. 14) Assess recovery and establishment of O. agrili using sentinel eggs at all selected release sites. 15) Monitor pan traps to assess establishment of introduced parasitoids at the oldest release sites (where open releases of parasitoids were made) and in areas where cages were used for parasitoid releases. 16) Continue to assess, analyze, and interpret data from caged tree studies to determine the potential to rear parasitoids in screened cages in the field to enhance release and establishment. 17) Continue to assess, analyze, and interpret data from caged tree studies to determine thepotential to establish parasitoids using screened cages. 18) Release all three parasitoid species at new locations (at least 1 to 3). 19) Repeat and improve field cage evaluations based on previous experiences (finalize sites, select trees, install cages, etc.). 20) Continue to assess the overwintering, and numbers of generations each year, of introduced parasitoids. 21) Continue to monitor and record tree health characteristics on selected trees at each release site.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
The following information details major activities completed and specific objectives met during this reporting period. Efforts in 2014 primarily focused on biological control activities directed against two invasive pests - hemlock woolly adelgid, Adelges tsugae, and emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis. Significant results, including major findings, developments, or conclusions, and key outcomes are provided. (1) Characterize and evaluate the effect of established natural enemies. A Biological Control Demonstration Site is established near Cosby, TN, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GRSM). Multiple species of natural enemies of hemlock woolly adelgid were released into four large, tree cages (one species/cage): Laricobius nigrinus (already established at site), L. osakensis - northern Japan strain, L. osakensis - southern Japan strain (both strains released as larvae), Sasajiscymnus tsugae, and Scymnus coniferarum (both released as adults). In beat-sheet sampling in Fall 2013 and Spring 2014, L. nigrinus and native L. rubidus were collected regularly. No L. osakensis or S. coniferarum were collected; only one S. tsugae was collected in beat-sheet sampling in Fall 2013. Emergence traps were placed under six trees; L. nigrinus and L. rubidus were collected. Two L. osakensis were collected from traps under one tree. Recovery from emergence traps indicates that this species fed as larvae, developed as larvae on foliage, dropped and pupated successfully in the soil, and emerged as adults. To reduce spread and effect of this invasive pest and preserve hemlock in its native range, releases of introduced predators S. tsugae and L. nigrinus have been conducted throughout GRSM. These two predators have been recovered from several release areas. Regression analysis indicated that recovery of S. tsugae was associated with release site elevation and average maximum temperature 7 days following release; normalized difference vegetation index values were higher in S. tsugae recovery sites than non-recovery sites which indicates that hemlocks are healthier inS. tsugae recovery sites than non-recovery sites. Relatively higher hemlock mortality was observed in non-recovery sites than recovery sites, and percent crown transparency, percent live crown, and percent branch dieback were also significant with presence of S. tsugae. Populations of L. nigrinus at a release site monitored for three years have been steadily increasing. A method for identifying numbers of L. nigrinus/tree based on emergence was identified and showed strong population densities over time. Finally, these two predatory species have been observed to coexist in some release sites; this coexistence may enhance their impact on adelgid populations by providing prolonged feeding. (2) Exploration, importation, and assessment of natural enemies for invasive pests. No international activities were conducted during this period; efforts focused on additional rearing and evaluation of previously collected organisms. The newly renovated Beneficial Insects Containment Laboratory at Univ. of Tennessee is 'open for business.' Discussions are underway to potentially evaluate parasitoids of emerald ash borer, kudzu bug, or brown marmorated stink bug, as well as predators of hemlock woolly adeglid. (3) Implementation, evaluation, and enhancement (e.g., conservation) of biological control. As part of efforts to implement biological control, the Lindsay Young Beneficial Insects Laboratory at Univ. of Tennessee continued to rear and release natural enemies of hemlock woolly adelgid. Several rearing challenges in 2014 resulted from reduced food quantity and quality of prey, which was attributed to the 'Polar Vortex.' The following information details specific rearing and release activities in 2014: Sasajiscymnus tsugae Production: Fewer S. tsugae were reared in 2014, as more effort (and prey) went to producing other beetles; 114,718 eggs were harvested, producing 60,549 adults. Releases: 11,766 released in GRSM, 11,191 in South Cherokee National Forest, 8,030 in Catoosa Wildlife Management Area, and 7,399 on the future Cumberland Trail. Notes: About 16,000 beetles were held in storage to be used in 2015; about 2,000 beetles will be sent to Young-Harris College to augment rearing colonies. Laricobius nigrinus Production: Due to lack of adelgid quality in 2014 and the need to rear as many L. osakensis as possible, fewer L. nigrinus were reared. 13,822 larvae were placed in soil aestivation containers; more than 4,000 adults emerged (33% survival). Releases: 595 released in GRSM, 825 in South Cherokee National Forest, 755 in Catoosa Wildlife Management Area, 387 in Piney Falls State Natural Area, 171 on the future Cumberland Trail, and 655 at Cumberland Gap National Historic Park. Notes: 112 beetles were provided to U.S.F.S. for research; ca. 100 remain in lab for rearing. Laricobius osakensis (Kansai) Production: 13,385 mature larvae were harvested and placed in soil aestivation containers. About 3,000 adults have emerged; total survival was ca. 28%, which was same as 2013. Releases: Almost all releases were made at two sites: GRSM (921) and South Cherokee National Forest (781); 271 were released at Laurel-Snow State Natural Area. Notes: 222 were shipped to Univ. of Georgia for colony establishment; 28 were shipped to Virginia Tech for research; ca. 700 remain in lab for rearing. Scymnus coniferarum Production: By Jan. 2014, this colony had less than 40 beetles, which were shipped to Virginia Tech for research. Releases: None. Notes: Trees at 2013 release site in Catoosa Wildlife Management Area were sampled in June 2014; no S. coniferarum recovered. Biological Control Efforts against Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis As part of continued efforts to implement biological control, research was expanded to improve application, assessment, and implementation of biological control tools against emerald ash borer. Specific objectives are to: 1) assess new technologies to establish and evaluate incidence and seasonal emergence of three introduced parasitoids (Oobius agrili - egg parasitoid; and Spathius agrili and Tetrastichus planipennisi - larval parasitoids), 2) evaluate alternate rearing strategies to enhance their production, rearing, and/or establishment, 3) assess incidence of native parasitoids, such as Atanycolus hicoriae, and 4) assess impact of parasitoid releases via new technologies on tree health and survival. Parasitoid release sites and sites where field cage studies could be implemented were identified. Three parasitoid species continued to be released at new locations, as well as re-released at several previous release sites. At previous release sites, tree health characteristics (dbh, canopy density, canopy transparency, percent live crown, crown position, and crown class) were assessed; 51 ash trees were felled and monitored for parasitoids; pan traps were deployed and more will be deployed in 2015 to assess parasitoid establishment. Potential to rear and/or establish parasitoids in field cages to enhance release and establishment, as well as assess overwintering of borer parasitoids, continued to be assessed. S. agrili adults began emerging from barrels on 4 Aug. and ended on 19 Aug.; sex ratio was 1:1.5 (M:F). No T. planipennisi or O. agrili were observed in barrels. Wood is being dissected for unemerged parasitoids. In a study using naturally-grown ash saplings in cages as a field insectary, no parasitoids emerged. Additionally, no parasitoid larvae of any species were observed. For larvae recovered, development was slowed, and no larvae developed past second instar. It is unclear why parasitism was not observed. Borer emergence/cage averaged 4 adults/cage, which is low. Perhaps uncharacteristically cold temperatures during Jan. and Feb. 2014 ('Polar Vortex') caused mortality of many borers and parasitoids.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Hooie, N. A., P. L. Lambdin, J. F. Grant, G. J. Wiggins, S. Powell, and J. P. Lelito. 2014. Native parasitoids and recovery of Spathius agrili from areas of release against emerald ash borer in eastern Tennessee, USA. Biocontrol Science and Technology Vol. 25: 345-351, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09583157.2014.971712.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Hooie, N. 2014. The seasonality of two parasitoids (Spathius agrili and Tetrastichus planipennisi) of the emerald ash borer, Agrilus planipennis, and a survey for native natural enemies of the emerald ash borer in eastern Tennessee. M.S. Thesis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Grant, J., K. J. Copley, S. D. Powell, and G. J. Wiggins. 2014. Emerald ash borer activities in Tennessee: Three years after&. Proceedings of the 55th Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, New Orleans, LA, July 23-26, 2013, pp. 32-33.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Grant, J. F. and P. L. Lambdin. 2014. Invasive European plant species in the Southern Appalachians, USA: Potential targets for collaboration and cooperation in a new beneficial insects quarantine laboratory. Proceedings of the 4th International Symposium on Weeds and Invasive Plants (Agricultural Weeds and Plant Invaders), Montpellier, France, May 18-23, 2014, pg. 143.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Hakeem, A., J. Grant, G. Wiggins, P. Lambdin, R. Rhea, F. Hale, and D. Buckley. 2014. Using remote sensing with on-site assessments to determine associations between tree health, tree mortality, and predators of hemlock woolly adelgid. Proceedings of the 55th Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, New Orleans, LA, July 23-26, 2013, pp. 46-47.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Hakeem, A., J. Grant, P. Lambdin, G. Wiggins, F. Hale, D. Buckley, and R. Rhea. 2014. Environmental factors affecting establishment of Sasajiscymnus tsugae, an introduced predator of hemlock woolly adelgid. Proceedings of the 24th USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, Annapolis, MD, January 8-11, 2013, pg. 74.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Nix, K. A., P. L. Lambdin, J. F. Grant, M. Windham, and P. Merten. 2014. Survey for potential natural enemies for control of thousand cankers disease in east Tennessee. Proceedings of the 55th Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, New Orleans, LA, July 23-26, 2013, pp. 45.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Wiggins, G., J. Grant, P. Lambdin, N. Hooie, and J. Lelito. 2014. Parasitoids to the rescue?: Biological control efforts against emerald ash borer in Tennessee. Proceedings of the 55th Southern Forest Insect Work Conference, New Orleans, LA, July 23-26, 2013, pp. 46.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Wiggins, G., J. Grant, A. Hakeem, P. Lambdin, A. Mayfield, and R. Rhea. 2014. Emergence and seasonal abundance of Laricobius nigrinus in the Southern Appalachians. HWA Biological Control Meeting, USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, Annapolis, MD, January 8-11, 2013.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Grant, J. F., S. D. Powell, G. J. Wiggins, and K. J. Copley. 2014. Biological control activities and distribution of emerald ash borer in Tennessee. Proceedings of the 24th USDA Interagency Research Forum on Invasive Species, Annapolis, MD, January 8-11, 2013, pg. 73.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2014
Citation:
Grant, J. F., G. Wiggins, and P. Lambdin. 2014. Biological control of introduced European musk thistle in the Southern Appalachians, USA: A 25-year assessment of benefits and risks. Proceedings of the 4th International Symposium on Weeds and Invasive Plants (Agricultural Weeds and Plant Invaders), Montpellier, France, May 18-23, 2014, pg. 142.
|
|