Die-Back in Sonneratia Alba in Kenyan Mangroves is due to Attack by a Cerambycid Beetle and a Metabellid Moth.

Abstract

Extensive die-back in the pioneer mngrove tree, Sonneratia Alba along the Kenyan Coast was investigated. It was caused by a cerambycid beetle (Bottegia spinipennis) and a metabellid moth (Salagena obsolescens). The beetle attacked small branches, laying its eggs singly, while the moth attacked large branches, laying its eggs in batches. The beetle was found at two sites, Mida Creek in the north and Gazi in the south. The moth was found at Gazi. Three parasitoids belonging to two species of Echthromorpha were reared from the beetle larvae. Some basic observations on the life histories of the two species are reported. Both species are Afrotropical in their distribution.