Characterisation of plant–pathogenic fungal associate from an invasive ambrosia beetle (Euplatypus parallelus) infesting rubber plantations of South India

Abstract

Ambrosia beetle infestations in rubber plantations of northern Kerala caused rapid tree decline, impacting farmers significantly. The present study focused on isolating and identifying fungal strains associated with Euplatypus parallelus, a recently reported invasive pest in rubber trees. Two fungal associates, Fusarium solani and Fusarium ambrosium, were identified. While F. Solani is a major sporulating plant pathogen; this marks its first report from adult E. parallelus beetles. Phytopathogenicity tests confirmed both isolates as pathogenic to rubber, with F. solani exhibiting higher virulence. The findings emphasise the need for stringent phytosanitary measures to prevent the spread of this infestation to other regions.