Community Structure and Diversity of Scolytinae in Two Mangrove Ecosystems of Western Mexico

Mangroves support a diverse insect fauna that plays essential roles in ecosystem functioning; however, the diversity of bark and ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in the mangroves of the Mexican Pacific remains poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the diversity and community structure of Scolytinae associated with two mangrove ecosystems in the state of Colima, western Mexico: Palo Verde Estuary and Juluapan Lagoon. Beetles were sampled using ethanol-baited traps (70% ethanol). A total of 1869 individuals belonging to 19 species and 10 genera were collected. Hypothenemus was the most species-rich genus, whereas Xyleborus volvulus was the dominant species. Five species are reported for the first time in Colima: Ambrosiodmus obliquus, Corthylus comatus, Premnobius cavipennis, Hypothenemus dolosus, and Hypothenemus indigens. Palo Verde Estuary showed higher beetle abundance, whereas Juluapan Lagoon exhibited greater species diversity and community evenness. Although the community shared several genera with mangrove ecosystems from other regions of Mexico and Brazil, it differed in species composition and dominance patterns. This study provides the first baseline on the Scolytinae fauna associated with the mangroves of Colima and establishes a reference for future ecological monitoring and phytosanitary surveillance programs.