Goldspotted Oak Borer
What is the Goldspotted Oak Borer?
The goldspotted oak borer (GSOB) Agrilus auroguttatus (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), is a wood borer native to southeastern Arizona, southern Mexico, and northern Guatemala. It is believed to be introduced into California and was first collected in San Diego Co. in 2004. In 2008, GSOB was linked to continuing oak mortality occurring since 2002 across all land ownerships. Tree mortality associated with GSOB was estimated at >20,000 covering an area of 4903 km2 (2009). Extensive larval feeding at the interface of the phloem and xylem leads to tree mortality after several years of injury. The goldspotted oak borer is currently the most significant insect threat to oaks in California and its known hosts range from southern California up to Oregon. Oak mortality is impacting aesthetics, property values, increasing health hazards in high-use areas, diminishing wildlife habitat, and changing the fuel structure in areas prone to wildfire.
GSOB Information
Current GSOB Activities: Entomology and Pathology
- Surveying and monitoring for the presence of GSOB in California
- Developing integrated pest management strategies
- Enhancing survey and trapping methods
- Determining the life cycle of GSOB
- Assessing the impact of GSOB in forest stands
- Assessing management options for infested wood material
- Conducting insecticide trials
- Assessing pathogens associated with GSOB injury
- Developing education and outreach materials
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Photographs by Stacy Hishinuma