Edge Effects and Soil Properties Driving the Distribution of Diaprepes abbreviatus
Posted August 2025
Researchers: Larry Duncan, Lauren Diepenbrock, Lukasz Stelinski
Contact: Larry Duncan, UF/IFAS CREC lwduncan@ufl.edu
Summary:
Diaprepes root weevil (DRW, Diaprepes abbreviatus) is a major economic pest of citrus trees in Florida and the Caribbean Basin. To identify potential drivers of local patterns of weevil abundance and tree condition, we measured relationships between DRW and edaphic properties in a Florida grove in which half the trees were initially protected from herbivores by individual protective covers (IPC) of fabric mesh. Weevils were monitored for two years in 94 plots arranged in a grid pattern. Soil samples were processed for physicochemical properties, and DNA from soil organisms was subjected to metabarcoding for ITS2 rDNA, 16S rDNA, and COI mtDNA. Early season, edge-biased distribution of DRW should be exploited for monitoring and management efficacy. The profound negative association here between IPC-induced, microbiome species deficits and tree mortality supports the need for validation and research to identify mitigating interventions to sustain the benefits of early tree protection afforded by individual protective covers.
Take Home Message:
- Diaprepes weevil populations are first located at field edges.
- Use of IPCs can reduce DRW local infestations.
