(1st Place) Emerald ash borer phenology and synchrony of their larval parasitoids

Invasive pests are one of the greatest threats to global forests. The emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Buprestidae), is an invasive beetle responsible for killing hundreds of millions of ash trees (Oleaceae: Fraxinus spp.) since first detection in North America in 2002. Classical biological control through the release of introduced parasitoids from the native range of EAB is the most promising means to impact this beetle at large scales. However, the successful establishment and pest suppression by an introduced biocontrol agent may depend on the synchronization of their lifecycle with that of the susceptibility windows of their host. We tested this hypothesis with a fine-grained analysis of host and parasitoid phenology at three sites in Maryland that vary in elevation and native ash species. On a monthly basis from February through November, we debarked and dissected infested ash to determine EAB phenology and parasitism rates, and we set out and collected yellow sticky cards and sentinel logs baited with susceptible larvae to verify the seasonal presence of parasitoids. Results from 2022 showed that parasitoids were found starting at the beginning of May through September, however, susceptible EAB larvae were only present on August and September. These results will be useful in fine-tuning the optimal strategies for releases EAB biological control agents in Maryland and in other localities with similar seasonal timing in environmental variables.