Evaluation of the damage caused by Coccotrypes rhizophorae in Rhizophora propagules along the Ecuadorian coast

Abstract

Abstract Coccotrypes rhizophorae (Coleoptera), an insect native to Indonesia, has been introduced to several American countries, including Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. C. rhizophorae is the principal pest of mangrove species in the genus Rhizophora. Here, we examine the damage caused by C. rhizophorae infestations in a mangrove forest at eleven locations along the Ecuadorian coast throughout one year. We collected 13,200 Rhizophora spp. propagules in total (1,200 individuals per site per year). The total C. rhizophorae infestation rate was 45%. The total prevalence of Rhizophora spp. propagules infested by C. rhizophorae was significantly higher during the rainy season (55%) compared to the dry season. Bellavista Island, Corazón and Fragatas Island, and Guayaquil Historical Park showed higher damage prevalence compared to other sites. In all sites and in both seasons, the prevalent location of damage in affected propagules was in the basal area (59,81%). There was an inverse relationship between the population size inside the propagule (larvae and adults) and rainfall. The number of holes created by C. rhizophorae in Rhizophora spp. propagules was associated with the damage intensity. These results are critical for the management, conservation, and restoration of mangrove forests in Ecuador and other countries where C. rhizophorae is present.