First record of the eucalypt gall-wasp Leptocybe invasa (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) from Uruguay

Abstract

Leptocybe invasa is a recently introduced forest pest, responsible for significant economic loss in Eucalyptus spp. plantations worldwide. The objective of this work is to report its presence in Uruguay, providing data of its distribution and biology. A survey for galls was conducted from 2013 to 2015. The presence of galls was confirmed in 15 out of 35 surveyed points and four out of 157 traps. Eucalyptus benthamii was recorded as a new host. Three periods of emergence were observed. Life cycle was completed only in E. tereticornis, E. camaldulensis and E. grandis.