Applicability of coloured traps for the monitoring of the invasive zigzag elm sawfly, Aproceros Leucopoda (Hymenoptera: Argidae)

Abstract

Aproceros leucopoda (Hymenoptera: Argidae), native to East Asia, is an invasive pest of elms (Ulmus spp.) recently reported from several European countries. The identification of effective and practical tools suitable for detecting and monitoring the species has become necessary. As no trapping methods have been developed for A. leucopoda yet, in this study we compared white, yellow and fluorescent yellow sticky "Cloak" traps for their applicability for catching adults. The experiment was carried out in a mixed forest plantation of black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) and Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila), the latter infested heavily with A. leucopoda, in Hungary, 2012. Both the yellow and fluorescent yellow sticky "Cloak" traps proved suitable for capturing high numbers of individuals of A. leucopoda, while the white traps caught significantly less adults. Trapping with the former coloured traps, completed with the inspection of host plants, may be recommended for the detection and monitoring of the pest.