Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

The two-line chestnut borer (Agrilus bilineatus) poses a major threat to oak populations in Europe. It is a close relative to the invasive emerald ash borer
(Agrilus planipennis), known for its catastrophic impact on ash (Fraxinus spp.) forest. With increase in global trade, the threat of A.bilineatus spreading further into
Europe is a serious concern for forest health and biosecurity. Quick and reliable molecular detection methods hence are needed to identify these pests before they
get established. In this study, I aim to create a loop isothermal amplification assay
for the early detection of TLCB. I have tested the assay against 24 non-target
species, comprising of 16 Agrilus species (Buperstidae), three non-Agrilus
buprestids, four Cerambycids, and two Curculionids. The assay was specific to the
target species showing clear amplification and no amplification for all non-target
species. The assay was also tested for sensitivity, and it successfully amplified DNA
as low as to 0.064 pg/μL. The result demonstrates high specificity and sensitivity
of the assay providing a reliable tool for early detection and can be used on-site to
monitor the presence of forest pests enabling proactive management of forest pest
invasions.