CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
Rubber plantations in Kerala are under significant threat due to a harmful alliance between a beetle species and two types of fungi. Scientists from the Kerala Forest Research Institute have identified the ambrosia beetle (Euplatypus parallelus) as the main pest responsible. This beetle acts as a carrier for two destructive fungi Fusarium ambrosia and Fusarium solani that are seriously affecting the health and productivity of rubber trees.
Discovery Of Beetle And Its Fungal Associates
Originally found in Central and South America, the ambrosia beetle made its first appearance in India in 2012 on cashew plantations in Goa. It targets weak or dying trees by burrowing into the trunk and forming tunnel-like structures known as galleries. Inside these galleries, the beetle cultivates fungi, which serve as a food source for both the beetles and their larvae. This symbiotic relationship leads to significant damage by weakening the tree’s structure and allowing deeper beetle intrusion. A recent and notable observation was the presence of Fusarium solani on adult beetles, an unusual finding since these beetles do not possess mycangia special sacs used by many other beetles to carry fungal spores.
Effects On Rubber Trees
Affected rubber trees display symptoms such as excessive leaf shedding, latex exudation, and trunk deterioration. The fungal infection blocks the tree's xylem vessels, impeding water transport and hastening trunk dryness. Enzymes released by the fungi degrade the strength of the wood, sometimes resulting in tree death. The overall outcome is a decline in latex output, posing a serious threat to the livelihoods of rubber farmers. Recovery from infection is slow, and conventional chemical treatments like fungicides and insecticides are largely ineffective as they cannot reach deep inside the tree’s vascular system.
Current Management Approaches
Present control strategies involve the removal and destruction of infected plant parts to prevent further spread. Traps are also used to capture adult beetles. Though antifungal sprays are applied, their success remains limited. Early detection and routine monitoring of plantations are considered the most effective preventive steps. However, once the infection takes hold within the tree, control becomes increasingly challenging due to its systemic nature.
Expanding Threat To Other Crops
The ambrosia beetle is capable of infesting over 80 broadleaf plant species, including key crops like coconut, teak, cashew, and coffee. Scientists worry that it could eventually associate with additional harmful fungal species, intensifying its destructive potential. Moreover, Fusarium fungi are known to affect other plant species and even pose health hazards to humans, particularly those with weakened immune systems. The rising spread of this invasive beetle highlights the urgent need for targeted research and strong policy interventions.
Sustainable Solutions And Way Forward
To effectively combat this threat, experts advocate for region-specific management plans tailored to Kerala’s unique conditions. Practices used in other regions may not yield the same results locally. Environment-friendly alternatives, such as introducing beneficial fungi or microbial communities inside the trees, are currently being explored. Success in combating this issue will require a united effort involving scientists, government authorities, and local farmers to devise long-term, eco-conscious solutions.
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