Welcome to Megastigmus and Conifers - the Biology of Invasion

Insect seed parasites are aggressive invaders that cause massive seed losses. These insects also provide sites for other insects that carry fungal pathogens that, in turn, are responsible for disease epidemics. The international seed trade has already resulted in movement, introduction and establishment of numerous seed insects. Due to a lack of regulatory measures for seed imports, species of Megastigmus seed chalcids have repeatedly established themselves in Europe; they now represent 43 % of the total fauna of tree seed chalcids. Megastigmus affects Canadian trees, but when accidentally introduced to western Europe they spread into most forest ecosystems of France.

The goal of our research is to identify the molecular, biological and ecological mechanisms of parasitism.

How does Megastigmus override the plant’s defenses or switch host plants? We will study a number of conifer seed-specific species of the genus Megastigmus. Such information is essential if we are to adapt management strategies to mitigate this threat to our two economies.

If you have any questions, email us at pvonader@uvic.ca