The goldspotted oak borer (Agrilus auroguttatus), locally referred to as GSOB, is an invasive exotic species that is posing a substantial threat to oak woodland ecosystems in California. Initial infestations were in southern San Diego County, but in 2012 this beetle was found in Riverside County (Idyllwild). In addition, oak tree mortality appears to be increasing over the last three years. Natural enemies from its native range do not occur in California and control options have not been developed making it imperative to develop strategies to prevent its introduction and impacts to other areas. The GSOB creates a distinctive D-shaped exit hole when adults emerge (see photo to right). Our current work is focused at Camp Pendleton and oak-riparian woodlands in conjunction with our Harbison's dun skipper project.
Research Tasks
1. Conduct field surveys to inspect oak trees for signs of GSOB infestation and damage.
2. Look for GSOB and identify other insects on sticky traps to start describing the oak woodland insect community.
This project is funded by a grant from the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
Goldspotted Oak Borer (Agrilus auroguttatus) Monitoring
