Nitidulids as vectors of the oak wilt fungus and other Ceratocystis spp. in Texas

Abstract

Abstract Sap‐feeding nitidulid beetles were trapped for 15 months at four oak wilt centers in central Texas and assayed for the presence of Ceratocystis fagacearum. Levels of contamination with the pathogen ranged 0.3% (Kerrville) – 2.0% (Austin); also detected were C. piceae at slightly higher levels and a low number of beetles carrying C. pluriannulata. The percentages of contaminated beetles were similar to those reported for other parts of the oak wilt range in the USA, but probable species differences in Texas were detected.