Submitted to: Insects
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/28/2024
Publication Date: 6/3/2024
Citation: Dzurenko, M., Ranger, C.M., Pavlik, M., Reding, M.E. 2024. Influence of ethanol grade on captures of ambrosia beetles in tree fruit orchards, ornamental nurseries, and lumber yards. Insects. 15. Article 408. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060408.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060408

Interpretive Summary: In our study, we explored ways to effectively trap invasive ambrosia beetles, which pose significant threats to trees and forests. We focused on comparing two types of bait—pure ethanol and dena-tured ethanol—to attract these pests in different environments like tree nurseries and orchards. We found that traps using pure ethanol captured more Xylosandrus germanus beetles compared to those with denatured ethanol. Our findings suggest that using pure ethanol could be more effective for monitoring certain ambrosia beetle species. This research contributes to better pest management strategies, helping protect trees and agricultural crops from invasive pests, ultimately benefiting society by safeguarding ecosystems and agricultural productivity.

Technical Abstract: Ambrosia beetles, particularly invasive species within the tribe Xyleborini, such as Xylosandrus germanus, pose significant threats to various ecosystems and managed habitats worldwide. Monitoring these invaders is vital for effective pest management, typically accomplished through ethanol-baited traps. We compared trap efficacy using denatured ethanol versus absolute ethanol in orchards, tree nurseries, and lumber yards in northeastern Ohio, USA, finding that absolute ethanol traps captured significantly more X. germanus. Analysis revealed acetone, ethanol, and methyl isobutyl ketone in the denatured ethanol, likely impacting trap efficacy. Our study underscores the importance of using pure denatured ethanol without acetone for effective monitoring, especially for X. germanus. Exotic xyleborines dominated trap captures across various habitats, emphasizing the need for tailored pest management strategies. Further research is warranted to explore the chemical ecology of ambrosia beetles and the influence of ethanol impurities on trap effectiveness.