First documented feeding interaction between the agricultural pest insect Oulema melanopus and the invasive weed species Eriochloa villosa
Keywords:
Chrysomelidae, Poaceae, Leaf damage, Interspecific interactions, Dispersal, Ecological adaptabilityAbstract
Oulema melanopus is a widespread agricultural pest insect that causes significant yield losses in cereal crops because of leaf damage during its larval stages. Infestations are unpredictable and sporadic, and research shows it can reliably feed on Poaceae family weeds, as well. In this paper we describe the first observed feeding interaction between O. melanopus and Eriochloa villosa, an East Asian weed that became a relevant invasive species in North America and Europe, especially due to its competitive nature and resulting yield losses within crops such as maize and soybeans. In June 2024, O. melanopus adults were observed to intensively feed on E. villosa, leaving typical elongated slits on most plant individuals grown in untreated experimental pots. We describe the resulting injuries in detail and discuss the relevance of the timing, as this occurred before surrounding cereal fields were harvested, and thus these individuals were most likely not forcefully displaced from their main hosts. We also discuss the importance of reporting interspecific interactions officially through scientific outlets due to the potential aid in creating better management strategies and prevention programs for invasive species and problematic pests, while also providing relevant ecological insights on their adaptability and interaction dynamics for further studies.
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