Digital identification tool for ambrosia and bark beetles of agriculture and forestry importance in Florida

Florida and other United States Forest ecosystems are seriously threatened by ambrosia and bark beetles [Coleoptera: Curculionidae: (Scolytinae: Platypodinae)]. In the landscape and natural habitats, these species have a significant affinity for coniferous hosts, especially pine trees (Pinus spp.). Significant financial damages may result from these beetles in the paper, resin, and lumber sectors. In the United States, numerous invasive beetle species have established themselves after being brought in by imported goods. Each year, a few of these species roam between woodlands and orchard trees, causing significant ecological and economic challenges. Proper identification of these beetles collected by us in the Florida Panhandle is therefore warranted for effective pest management. This digital tool showcases identification of 25 species within 18 beetle genera, including Ambrosiodmus, Ambrosiophilus, Cnestus, Cryptocarenus, Cyclorhipidion, Dendroctonus, Dryoxylon, Euplatypus, Gnathotrichus, Hypothenemus, Ips, Monarthrum, Myoplatypus, Phloeotribus, Stenoscelis, Xyleborinus, Xyleborus, and Xylosandrus. High-resolution images were developed using a stereomicroscope (Leica MZ16) for the dorsal and lateral habitus of beetles. In order to focus on diagnostic traits including size, color, shape, antennal structure, pronotal shape, elytral punctation, seta type, scale, spine, tubercle, and others, the specimens were analyzed using multi-pathway entomological keys. This tool is under construction and, upon deployment, will support the end-users, including pest screeners, identifiers, scientists, students, extension agents, pest managers, foresters, and the public. Indeed, this digital tool will assist the regulatory agencies in Florida and the neighboring states to manage these pests effectively.