Participants:
Robert Venette, Ph.D., Research Biologist, North Central Research Service, US Forest Service, rvenette@fs.fed.us
Juli Gould, Ph.D., Entomologist, Otis Pest Survey, Detection and Exclusion Laboratory, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, Juli.R.Gould@aphis.usda.gov
Rebecca Simmons, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Dept. of Biology, University of North Dakota, rebecca.simmons@und.nodak.edu
Daniel Fieselmann, M.S., National Science Program Leader, SDI, USDA/APHIS/PPQ, daniel.a.fieselmann@aphis.usda.gov
Project Summary:
The primary goal of this research proposal is to improve our nation's capacity to detect and identify exotic species that may threaten US agriculture and ecosystems. The proposal directly addresses needs for early detection and monitoring tools, statistical and experimental validation of risk assessment procedures, and improved diagnostic capabilities for obscure species. We focus on Copitarsia decolora (Guen.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), because this high-risk pest, while not yet known to occur in the US, is regularly intercepted at US ports of entry. This species remains exceptionally difficult to identify, particularly as eggs and larvae. We have assembled a multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional team to address our four integrated objectives:
1. To experimentally test four models that measure climatic suitability for establishment of C. decolora in the US
2. To quantify the minimum viable population size needed for populations of C. decolora to persist over time
3. To develop molecular diagnostic tools to aid in identification of C. decolora
4. To generate detection recommendations based principles from sampling theory and information generated in objectives 1-3.
Objective 1 provides direction on when and where to sample; objective 2, on how intensively to sample; and objective 3, on the identification of specimens from the sample. Team members are already skilled at developing climate analyses for exotic pests (e.g. with CLIMEX), designing and executing experiments with C. decolora under quarantine conditions, and analyzing the morphology and DNA of Copitarsia spp., and coordinating efforts for improved pest survey and detection. Thus, we are ideally poised to translate the hypothesis-driven research outlined in this proposal to tangible deliverables that will be of immediate value to pest survey units.
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Risk Assessment
Survey and Detection