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Fungi: Minnesota's Tiny Heroes Against Ash Borers
3 Dec
Summary
- Certain fungi found in Minnesota can kill the invasive emerald ash borer.
- Autodissemination devices trap beetles and coat them with fungus spores.
- Researchers are testing four fungal strains in state parks and forests.
Invasive emerald ash borers, which have devastated ash tree populations since their 2009 arrival in Minnesota, may soon face a natural adversary. A recent study by the University of Minnesota has identified specific native fungi capable of effectively killing these destructive beetles. The research focused on fungi's ability to infect the pests and shorten their lifespans, offering a potential biological control method.
Scientists are exploring the use of autodissemination devices, a novel strategy where beetles are trapped and coated with fungus spores. These infected beetles then spread the spores through natural behaviors like mating, effectively acting as carriers to infect other beetles. This method is particularly promising for reaching pests in hard-to-access forested areas.
Field trials are currently underway across Minnesota's state parks and forests, with researchers testing the four most successful fungal strains. This collaborative effort with state and private land managers aims to determine the efficacy of this fungal-based pest control under real-world conditions, offering hope for the preservation of the state's ash trees.
