Insect Science, a leading semiochemical manufacturer, is thrilled to announce the development of P.S.H.B. PheroLure© to aid in monitoring for polyphagous shothole borer (Euwallacea fornicatus). A type of active called quercivorol attracts female PSHB beetles to the trap. This allows for early PSHB detection and intervention in the hopes of curbing its spread from urban to agricultural areas. Through extensive field trials, this pheromone lure has demonstrated exceptional efficiency in catching PSHB, equivalent to industry-standard PSHB lures sold worldwide.

POLYPHAGOUS SHOTHOLE BORER

The PSHB is an ambrosia beetle from Southeast Asia that has a symbiotic relationship with the Fusarium euwallaceae fungus and is an invasive species in California, Israel, Australia, and South Africa. It poses a threat to various sectors, including agriculture, commercial forestry, urban trees, and native trees in natural forests, leading to branch die-back and potential tree mortality. PSHB lifecycle Female beetles bore into host trees, making galleries in the Xylem area. They carry the Fusarium euwallaceae fungus in their mouth parts, infecting the galleries and spreading throughout the tree. After 8 days, females lay eggs at the end of the galleries. Within days, the eggs hatch, and the larvae feed on the fungus. Adults emerge from the trees in about one month. With a high ratio of females, just one mated female can establish a whole new population, making control challenging.