September 2022 EcoQuest: Tracking Tamarisk Beetles
Join the September EcoQuest: Tracking Tamarisk Beetles.
Join the EcoQuest
WHAT TO OBSERVE:
Find and map as many tamarisk beetles (larvae too!) (Diorhabda spp.) and tamarisk trees (Tamarix spp.) as possible.
Tamarisk beetles, or salt cedar beetles, are a small leaf beetles that are greenish to light tan in color, with four brown stripes running down their back. They are about the size of a ladybug. The larvae are very small and appear completely black in the earliest stage. The second and third stages are typically characterized by a long yellow stripe running down either side of their abdomen.
Find more photos and information here.
Tamarisk beetle observation by @kenziebell2.
Tamarisk beetles were released as a biological control for invasive tamarisk trees in 2001. The beetles and their larvae feed on the tree’s leaves, weakening them and reducing their ability to reproduce. Despite the beetles’ tree appetite, researchers believe it could take five to seven years of repeated feasting to kill tamarisk trees, depending on the location and micro-environmental factors. Although tamarisk beetles alone will not eliminate tamarisk trees, the goal is to help control their spread and give native plants and riparian habitat a chance to recover.
The beetles were not expected to survive Arizona’s arid climate, but they have expanded their range much faster and farther than predicted - bringing tricky ecological situations with them. Tamarisk trees may die off faster than intended, leaving native plants struggling to fill habitat fast enough and affecting the endangered southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii ectimus). Other potential issues include restoration challenges, destabilizing riparian banks, and the amount of standing dead trees. The beetles can assist with long-term recovery and resiliency of riparian communities, but it is important to acknowledge the potential challenges.
In early October 2021, EcoFlora project members made the first observations of tamarisk beetles in the metro Phoenix area on iNaturalist. The beetles had been observed by scientists in September, and Metro Phoenix EcoFlora project member @kenziebell2 was the first to observe them in the area on iNaturalist, followed by @kristen-c and @mchew6. The observations have nearly doubled over the past year. Can you help us find more?
The tamarisk beetle was tested by the US Department of Agriculture for more than 10 years to ensure that it would be effective and not feed on native plants or crops in the western United States. If you see the beetle or larvae feeding on plants that are not tamarisk, please email ecofloraphx@dbg.org.
Tamarisk beetle larvae observation by @kristen-c.
Observing tamarisk beetles and their larvae can contribute to the efforts of organizations that are tracking their range, activity, and phenology, such as RiversEdge West. Observing the tamarisk trees they feed on can also help us learn where they may move next.
Sources and more information:
RiversEdge West
EcoQuests are month-long challenges that are part of the larger Metro Phoenix EcoFlora project. Learn more by visiting our website.
Look for project happenings, EcoQuest announcements and more in the newsletter, project journal and on social media.
Sign up for the newsletter, The Metro Phoenix Field Guide.
Let's be social on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
Please do not observe indoor houseplants or pets.
For your own safety and the protection of plants and wildlife, do not trespass when making observations. Please follow all posted rules and guidelines in parks/preserves and do not enter private property.
Do not remove or move natural materials (plants, animals, rocks).
Respect wildlife (do not touch, feed, or disturb animals and keep a safe distance).
Observe COVID-19 Guidelines/Recommendations.
This is a great opportunity to observe and appreciate nature in our neighborhoods as we all navigate the complications of COVID-19. It is imperative that you follow COVID-19 guidelines/recommendations (wear a mask, practice physical distancing and wash your hands).
Do what’s best for you and your community.
For more COVID-19 information and guidelines, visit:
https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/city-nature-challenge-2020/journal/31768-cnc-covid-19
https://www.inaturalist.org/blog/31664-exploring-nature-when-you-re-stuck-at-home
Arizona Office of Tourism: Responsible Recreation in AZ
https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona
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