On-site genetic diagnosis for the invasive pest Hylurgus ligniperda (Fabricius) and its possible application

Forests in nearly all regions worldwide are affected by invasions of non-native bark beetles. Hylurgus ligniperda (Fabricius) is a globally invasive bark beetle that stealthily jeopardizes pine health and spreads worldwide insidiously. The worldwide occurrence of Hylurgus ligniperda challenges trade in pine logs or wooden materials. Early identification of Hylurgus ligniperda is crucial in implementing appropriate pest management strategies.

This study established a simple, efficient, and accurate method for identifying Hylurgus ligniperda based on recombinase polymerase amplification and the lateral flow dipstick (RPA-LFD). The method can distinguish Hylurgus ligniperda from other species and has a sensitivity threshold of 10 fg/μL. Subsequently, field application tests were conducted using RPA-LFD assays, the first field application case in forestry entomology. The field test results showed that RPA-LFD combined with crude DNA extraction could accurately identify Hylurgus ligniperda (except elytra). The influence of environmental factors (temperature, humidity, and wind) was also investigated. The results showed that only wind speed (P = 0.003) was significantly correlated with the color rendering of the LFD and negatively correlated with the color and density of the LFD detection line.

A rapid field-based identification method applied helps the elimination of barriers to the lagging identification of invasive pests. Implementing RPA-LFD aims to provide a reliable and efficient tool for rapidly identifying invasive insects, enabling timely intervention and effective management strategies. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.