Potential impacts of emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire) on the native insect fauna of ash in eastern North Dakota

Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire), is a devastating, invasive Buprestid beetle that is a major cause of ash tree mortality in northeastern North America. Its primary host is green ash, Fraxinus pennsylvanica Marshall, an important hardwood shade and riparian woodland tree in North Dakota, but it will attack any Fraxinus species. By surveying the present insect fauna of ash, we will gain a better understanding of the native insects on the Fraxinus community. The goal of our research is to examine the insect diversity primarily associated with Fraxinus pennsylvanica throughout selected areas of the Red River Valley. Several trapping techniques (Lindgren funnel traps, flight intercept traps) and beat sheets were used to survey the insect fauna. Collected insects were prepared using standard insect collection methods and identified to species. This research will allow us to assess the potential ecological impact of emerald ash borer on native insect fauna in the future and to gain the basic tools necessary to make future decisions on regulations, management, and policy within North Dakota. In addition, this research will provide a useful centrally-located data point for ongoing nationwide studies concerning the status of threatened Fraxinus communities.