Spatial distribution of beetle attack and its association with mango sudden decline: an investigation using geostatistical tools.

BACKGROUND: Ceratocystis fimbriata recognized as among the species that induces Mango Sudden Decline (MSD) causes plant death within a short time period. Hypocryphalus mangiferae and Xyleborus affinis (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) are the vectors of MSD. Thorough understanding of the spatial distribution of the pest is crucial while designing the control techniques, and drawing up sampling plans. Thus, this study aimed at the identification of the beetles and their dispersal pattern in the mango trees in MSD-infected commercial orchards and its relation to the severity of the C. fimbriata infestation.

RESULTS: The beetle attacks were observed to be at the maximum level on the mango tree trunks revealing severe infestation. From the geostatistical analysis, an aggregated pattern was evident as galleries in the trunks and branches.

CONCLUSION: Our findings are the first study employing geostatic tools on a plant scale in the MSD-infested mango orchards and the incidence of beetle attack. These results can become a highly effective a tool for the mango growers, with respect to the management of beetles and MSD, as this will facilitate the monitoring of specific sites where the frequency of beetles and MSD is high. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.