Two newly detected bark and ambrosia beetles from southern Florida (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae)

Abstract

Coptoborus pseudotenuis (Schedl) and Cryptocarenus diadematus Eggers, two species of Neotropical Scolytinae, are reported from Florida and the U.S. for the first time. This is the first report of the genus Coptoborus from the U.S. We provide descriptions, figures, distribution maps and keys. Specimens collected in southern Florida of Coptoborus pseudotenuis (Schedl) and Cryptocarenus diadematus Eggers were recently found in Florida State Collection of Arthropods and via the USDA Forest Service survey for non-native scolytines (Rabaglia et al. 2008). These widespread Neotropical species of Scolytinae have not been reported previously from the United States. At first glance, these would appear to be two more entries on the growing list of introduced exotic bark and ambrosia beetles detected in the U.S. (Haack 2006, Rabaglia et al. 2006). While it is possible that they have been introduced, it is also just as plausible that they have been present for much longer or might even occur in southern Florida naturally (i.e., without any human intervention: sensu Atkinson and Peck 1994). Most species of Scolytinae are very small (< 2mm), not attracted to light traps and seldom collected outside their host plants. Consequently, most species are rarely collected and it is possible that these two species have been overlooked until now. As an example, Peck (1989) was the first to use flight intercept traps extensively in southern Florida, resulting in detection of several undescribed species, numerous new records from Florida, as well as the first records in over 100 years of some uncommonly collected species (Atkinson et al. 1991, Atkinson and Peck. 1994). Recent USDA Forest Service and APHIS programs to detect non-native bark and ambrosia beetles utilizing funnel traps baited with ethanol or pheromone lures (Rabaglia et al. 2008) are accelerating the discovery of new records and range extensions of seldom collected native species (unpublished observations). In summary, whether or not these are recent introductions can probably not be resolved at this time. The following abbreviations are used for museums where specimens are deposited: FSCA (Florida State Collection of Arthropods), MSUC (Michigan State University Collection). Copyright © 2010 Magnolia Press.