Climate-change
Guides
Adelges tsugae
Hemlock Woolly Adelgid, HWA
Adelges tsugae, the hemlock woolly adelgid, is a small invasive sap-sucking insect native to East Asia. In eastern North America, it is a destructive pest of eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) and Carolina hemlock (Tsuga caroliniana), causing extensive tree mortality and threatening forest ecosystems. The insect is named for the white, woolly wax coating that covers its egg sacs and protects the insects beneath. It reproduces asexually via parthenogenesis in North America, producing two generations per year.
Aedes vexans
inland floodwater mosquito, tomguito
Aedes vexans is a cosmopolitan floodwater mosquito native to North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, and is now established in Australia. It is frequently the most abundant mosquito species across much of its range, particularly in northern latitudes. Females are aggressive human biters active at dusk, while males feed exclusively on nectar. The species is a documented vector for multiple pathogens including dog heartworm, Tahyna virus, and West Nile virus, and has demonstrated laboratory competence for Zika virus transmission. Its eggs survive winter in dry flood-prone soils, hatching when inundated by rainfall.
Amblyomma
Bont Ticks
Amblyomma is the third largest genus of hard ticks (Ixodidae), comprising medium to large, often ornamented species. The genus is the sole member of the subfamily Amblyomminae and exhibits its highest species diversity in the Americas, where half of all species occur. Many Amblyomma species are medically significant as vectors of human and animal pathogens, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, and the agent of alpha-gal syndrome. The genus likely originated between South America and Antarctica approximately 48 million years ago, with subsequent diversification and dispersal into Australian and South American Gondwana.
Amblyomma cajennense
Cayenne tick
Amblyomma cajennense, commonly known as the Cayenne tick, is a hard tick species historically considered to range from the southern United States through Central America and the Caribbean to northern Argentina. Molecular studies have revealed this 'species' is actually a complex of multiple cryptic species, with A. cajennense sensu stricto now restricted to the Amazonian region of South America. The species complex is of significant medical and veterinary importance as a vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and other rickettsial diseases.
Aratus
mangrove tree crabs
Aratus is a genus of semi-terrestrial sesarmid crabs comprising at least two recognized species, with Aratus pisonii (mangrove tree crab) being the best studied. These crabs are specialized arboreal inhabitants of mangrove ecosystems throughout the Neotropics, occupying the canopy and prop root zones. The genus has gained scientific attention due to documented climate-induced range expansion along the Atlantic coast of North America, with populations establishing in salt marsh habitats beyond the historical mangrove range limit. Research on Aratus pisonii has revealed significant phenotypic plasticity in life history traits, behavior, and physiology across native and novel habitats.
Bertmainius
Bertmainius is a genus of tree trapdoor spiders in the family Migidae. The genus was established for seven species from the mesic zone of south-western Australia, including Bertmainius tingle and six species described with the genus. Its species were delimited using both morphological and molecular evidence, reflecting a history of deep divergence among relict populations. The group is notable for conservation concerns linked to inappropriate fire regimes and climate change.
Carphoborus
Carphoborus is a genus of crenulate bark beetles in the family Curculionidae, containing at least 40 described species. Members of this genus are associated with coniferous forests and are recognized as forest pests in some regions. One species, Carphoborus minimus, has been studied for its potential northward range expansion in Turkey due to climate change.
Ceroplastes
wax scales
Ceroplastes is a genus of wax scales in the family Coccidae, comprising more than 130 described species. These insects are characterized by the conspicuous white, waxy coverings they secrete, which protect their soft bodies. Adults are largely sessile and feed on plant sap using piercing-sucking mouthparts. Many species are economically significant pests of ornamental plants, fruit trees, and shrubs. The genus exhibits parthenogenesis in many species, with females reproducing without males. Climate change has facilitated the northward expansion of several species from southern regions into previously cooler areas.
Ceroplastes cirripediformis
barnacle scale, barnacle wax scale
Ceroplastes cirripediformis, commonly known as the barnacle scale or barnacle wax scale, is a soft scale insect (Hemiptera: Coccidae) recognized for its distinctive waxy covering that resembles a small barnacle. It is a destructive invasive pest with a broad host range spanning numerous plant families. The species has expanded its range globally through human-mediated transport and climate change, with established populations across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Females reproduce parthenogenetically, producing up to a thousand eggs annually without observed males in wild populations.
Ceroplastes rusci
Fig Wax Scale
Ceroplastes rusci, commonly known as the fig wax scale, is a soft scale insect (family Coccidae) native to the Mediterranean region. First discovered in Florida in 1994-1995, it has since spread to numerous countries across six continents and is recognized as a significant agricultural and forestry pest. The species feeds on more than 94 genera from 52 plant families, with notable impacts on figs, citrus, grapes, and ornamental plants. Climate change modeling predicts expanding suitable habitat ranges through 2100, increasing its invasive potential in temperate regions.
Chrysomela aeneicollis
Willow Leaf Beetle
Chrysomela aeneicollis is a willow leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae that has served as an important model organism for studies of natural selection, climate adaptation, and conservation genomics. Populations in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California have been studied intensively since 1984 to understand how montane insects respond to thermal variation, reduced oxygen availability, and environmental change. The species sequesters salicin from host willows to produce defensive salicylaldehyde secretions, though these are ineffective against specialist predators. It is included in the California Conservation Genomics Project due to its documented population structure and genetic variation along environmental gradients.
Coenonympha tullia subfusca
Coenonympha tullia subfusca is a subspecies of the large heath butterfly, a member of the family Nymphalidae. It is associated with peatland and bog habitats, where it occurs alongside other bog-specialist species. The subspecies is part of a complex that shows variation across its range in Europe and North America. Like other Coenonympha species, it is dependent on specific habitat conditions that have become increasingly threatened by drainage, peat extraction, and climate change-induced wildfires.
Corythucha arcuata
oak lace bug
Corythucha arcuata, the oak lace bug, is a small sap-sucking insect in the family Tingidae native to North America. First detected in Europe in 2000, it has become a major invasive pest across more than 20 EU countries, causing significant damage to oak forests. The species overwinters as adults and produces multiple overlapping generations per year, with development rates and generation number determined by thermal accumulation. In its invaded range, it lacks effective natural enemies, prompting investigation of classical biological control using the egg parasitoid Erythmelus klopomor from its native range.
Dendroctonus
bark beetles, tree-killing beetles
Dendroctonus is a genus of bark beetles in the family Curculionidae, subfamily Scolytinae. The genus name derives from Greek 'dendron' (tree) and 'ktonos' (murder), reflecting its capacity to kill trees. Species in this genus are among the most destructive forest pests in North America, with several species capable of causing extensive tree mortality through mass attacks. The genus exhibits complex chemical communication systems involving aggregation and antiaggregation pheromones, and maintains symbiotic relationships with yeasts and bacteria that aid in digestion and pheromone production.
Dendroctonus adjunctus
roundheaded pine beetle
Dendroctonus adjunctus, commonly known as the roundheaded pine beetle, is a bark beetle native to North America that infests and kills pine trees. Adults are 5–6 mm long with shiny, dark brown to black exoskeletons covered in hairs. The species has a one-year life cycle, with adults colonizing weakened pine trees in autumn, constructing extensive egg galleries in the cambium and phloem. Outbreaks can be devastating, killing up to 50% of pines in pure stands. The beetle is distributed across the southwestern United States and Mexico, and is considered a serious pest of commercial and wild pine stocks.
Dendroctonus pseudotsugae
Douglas-fir beetle, Douglas fir beetle
The Douglas-fir beetle (Dendroctonus pseudotsugae) is a bark beetle native to western North America and a major pest of Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). Adults are small (4.4–7 mm), light brown when young, darkening to brown or black with reddish wing covers. Outbreaks typically follow disturbances such as storms, fire, or drought, which provide stressed or dead host trees. The species has one of the most thoroughly studied pheromone systems among bark beetles, with operational use of its antiaggregation pheromone (MCH) to protect high-value trees developed over 40 years of research. The beetle also infests downed western larch (Larix occidentalis), though brood do not survive in live larch due to high 3-carene content.
Dendroctonus rufipennis
spruce beetle, great spruce bark beetle
Dendroctonus rufipennis, the spruce beetle, is a bark beetle native to North America and a major pest of spruce forests. Adults measure 4–7 mm in length and are among the larger bark beetles in spruce. The species undergoes a facultative life cycle of 1, 2, or 3 years, with 2-year cycles being most common. Outbreaks have caused extensive tree mortality across western North America, particularly affecting Engelmann and white spruce. Climate warming and drought stress are key factors driving population increases.
Dendroctonus simplex
Eastern Larch Beetle
Dendroctonus simplex, the eastern larch beetle, is a bark beetle in the family Curculionidae that colonizes the phloem of tamarack (Larix laricina). Historically a secondary pest attacking stressed or dying trees, it has undergone an unprecedented 18-year outbreak in northern Minnesota since 2000, killing over 440,000 acres of tamarack forest. Research indicates that warming climate has enabled some populations to complete development without an obligatory overwintering period, potentially allowing multiple generations per year. The beetle is a holobiont, engaging in multipartite symbiotic interactions with bacteria and fungi that facilitate host colonization and detoxification of terpenes.
Dioprosopa clavata
Four-speckled Hover Fly
Dioprosopa clavata is a Neotropical hoverfly (Diptera: Syrphidae) and the type species of genus Dioprosopa. Adults feed on nectar and pollen, while larvae are aphidophagous predators that also attack spittlebugs and other hemipteran pests. The species provides dual ecosystem services as both a pollinator and biological control agent in natural habitats and agroecosystems, including citrus orchards. Climate change projections indicate substantial habitat loss by 2100, with range contractions in tropical lowlands and modest shifts toward cooler, higher-elevation refugia.
Drepanaphis acerifoliae
painted maple aphid
Drepanaphis acerifoliae, commonly known as the painted maple aphid, is a species of aphid in the family Aphididae. It is one of 16 species in the genus Drepanaphis, all native to North America. This species has the broadest geographic range among its congeners and is the only member of the genus known to have been introduced to Europe, where it has established populations in the Mediterranean region and beyond. Climate modeling suggests potential for further northward expansion in both North America and Europe over the coming decades.
Empoasca
Empoasca is a genus of leafhoppers (family Cicadellidae, subfamily Typhlocybinae) containing approximately 20 described species. Several species are significant agricultural pests, most notably Empoasca fabae (potato leafhopper), which causes hopperburn injury to over 200 plant species including potatoes, alfalfa, and beans. Members of this genus are characterized by their small size, typically bright green coloration, and production of brochosomes—unique nanoparticles that create a superhydrophobic, anti-reflective coating on their bodies. The genus has a wide distribution with some species showing strong migratory behavior.
Euphydryas
checkerspot butterflies
Euphydryas is a genus of checkerspot butterflies in the family Nymphalidae. The genus includes species that have been extensively studied in population biology and conservation, with some species subject to reintroduction efforts. Several species are declining across their ranges, with climate change identified as a significant factor. Larvae typically feed on specific host plants and construct silk webs.
Euphydryas chalcedona
Chalcedon checkerspot, variable checkerspot
Euphydryas chalcedona is a species of checkerspot butterfly in the family Nymphalidae, commonly known as the Chalcedon checkerspot or variable checkerspot. It is native to western North America, with its range extending from British Columbia south to Baja California and east to the Rocky Mountains. The species exhibits considerable variation in wing pattern and coloration across its geographic range. Like other members of the genus Euphydryas, it is associated with specific larval host plants and has been subject to conservation concern due to habitat loss and climate change impacts affecting butterfly populations across the western United States.
Euthyrhynchus
Florida predatory stink bug
Euthyrhynchus is a monotypic genus of predatory stink bugs in the family Pentatomidae, subfamily Asopinae. The sole species, E. floridanus (Florida predatory stink bug), is native to the southeastern United States and has expanded its range northward in recent decades, now regularly occurring as far north as the Mid-Atlantic and New England. This carnivorous shield bug is considered beneficial in agricultural and garden settings due to its predation on pest insects.
Evacanthus
Evacanthus is a genus of leafhoppers in the family Cicadellidae, first described in 1828. Species in this genus are found across Eurasia and North America. One species, Evacanthus interruptus, has been identified as an economically significant pest of agricultural and horticultural crops.
Evacanthus interruptus
Evacanthus interruptus is a leafhopper species in the family Cicadellidae, distributed across Europe and Asia. The species exhibits significant morphological variability in coloration and pattern. Climate modeling studies indicate it is among the most economically important leafhopper pests worldwide, with habitat suitability concentrated in western Europe. Future climate scenarios suggest complex shifts in its distribution, with potential range expansion under some projections.
Glyphodes
mulberry pyralid moths
Glyphodes is a genus of moths in the family Crambidae, subfamily Spilomelinae, described by Achille Guenée in 1854. The genus contains multiple species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, with some species having expanded their ranges significantly in recent decades. Several species are economically important as pests of cultivated plants, particularly mulberry (Morus spp.), jack-fruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), and jasmine (Jasminum spp.). Glyphodes pyloalis, known as the lesser mulberry pyralid or mulberry pyralid, is the most extensively studied species due to its impact on sericulture and mulberry production globally.
Glyphodes pyloalis
lesser mulberry snout moth, lesser mulberry pyralid, beautiful glyphodes moth, mulberry pyralid
Glyphodes pyloalis is a small crambid moth native to Asia that has expanded its range to North America, Africa, and Central Asia. It is a specialist pest of mulberry (Morus spp.), with larvae feeding on leaves and causing significant economic damage to sericulture and mulberry cultivation. The species has shown notable range expansion in recent decades, facilitated by climate warming and wind dispersal. Population dynamics are strongly influenced by temperature extremes, with cold winters causing mass mortality of overwintering larvae.
Lethocerus
giant water bugs, toe biters, electric light bugs
Lethocerus is a genus of large predatory aquatic true bugs in the family Belostomatidae. Members are among the largest true bugs, with some species exceeding 12 cm in length. The genus is distinguished from related genera by specific morphological features of the fore femur and parasternites. Unlike other giant water bugs, females do not deposit eggs on males' backs; instead, eggs are laid on emergent vegetation above the waterline and guarded by males. The genus shows greatest diversity in the Americas, with limited representation in Europe, Africa, Australia, and Asia.
Lycaena hermes
Hermes Copper
The Hermes Copper is a rare butterfly species endemic to southern California, currently classified under the genus Lycaena (family Lycaenidae). It is considered to be in danger of global extinction according to long-term monitoring data. The species has experienced severe population declines attributed to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use, particularly neonicotinoids.
Melanoplus frigidus
Nordic mountain grasshopper, narrow-winged locust, High Mountain Grasshopper
Melanoplus frigidus is an alpine grasshopper species in the family Acrididae, native to northern Europe and Asia. It is a true alpine specialist restricted to high-elevation habitats in the Scandes and similar mountain systems. Research has focused on its sensitivity to temperature variation as a potential indicator of climate change effects on alpine ecosystems.
Nepytia janetae
Nepytia janetae is a geometrid moth species that has transitioned from an innocuous, poorly studied insect to a significant forest pest in the southwestern United States. Since 1996, four major outbreaks have caused extensive defoliation and mortality of conifer trees across tens of thousands of acres in Arizona and New Mexico mountain ranges. The species exhibits an unusual life history as a univoltine, autumn- and winter-feeding looper at high elevations where temperatures regularly approach or fall below 0°F. Outbreaks appear associated with reduced snowpack, though the precise climatic mechanisms remain unclear.
Nepytia janetae
Janeta's looper moth
Nepytia janetae is a geometrid moth in the family Geometridae native to southwestern United States mountain ranges. Prior to 1996, it was an inconspicuous species with little ecological impact. Since 1996, four major outbreaks have caused extensive defoliation of conifer forests across Arizona and New Mexico, killing tens of thousands of acres of trees. The species exhibits an unusual winter-feeding larval stage, active when minimum temperatures approach or drop below 0°F. Outbreak termination occurs primarily through parasitism, viral infection, larval starvation, and occasionally heavy rain during egg deposition.
Obolodiplosis robiniae
locust gall midge, black locust gall midge
Obolodiplosis robiniae is a small gall midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) native to eastern North America that has become a significant invasive pest in Eurasia. The species is monophagous on Robinia species, particularly black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), forming distinctive leaf margin roll galls through gregarious larval feeding. First described from Pennsylvania in 1847, it was detected in Asia in 2002-2003 (Japan, Korea) and Europe in 2003 (Italy), subsequently spreading explosively to 26 European countries and much of China. Climate modeling predicts substantial northward range expansion under warming scenarios, with suitable habitat potentially increasing by 35% by 2070. The midge reduces host tree growth and productivity, causes early leaf abscission, and facilitates secondary pest attacks by wood-boring beetles.
Ochlerotatus implicatus
Ochlerotatus implicatus is a mosquito species in the family Culicidae, first described by Vockeroth in 1954. It has been documented in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of North America, where recent surveillance studies have recorded new distribution records for this species. The species belongs to the Aedes genus complex, which includes many floodwater mosquitoes. Research in northern Canada detected Jamestown Canyon virus in this species, indicating potential vector competence for California serogroup viruses.
Ochlerotatus taeniorhynchus
black salt marsh mosquito
Ochlerotatus taeniorhynchus, commonly known as the black salt marsh mosquito, is a floodwater mosquito species native to coastal and salt marsh habitats across the Americas. It is a significant nuisance species and disease vector, known to transmit Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) and susceptible to Everglades virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The species has been observed expanding its range and increasing in abundance following extreme weather events such as hurricanes and flooding. Laboratory studies indicate it readily feeds on both pork and cow blood through artificial membranes, with feeding preferences varying by population.
Ochlerotatus togoi
Ochlerotatus togoi is a salt-tolerant euryhaline mosquito that inhabits coastal rock pools with salinities ranging from freshwater to seawater. It is a known vector of flaviviruses and filarial worms affecting humans, including Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia species. Rising sea levels have expanded its suitable habitat, increasing public health concerns in coastal regions. Laboratory studies show complex salinity-dependent life history traits: highest oviposition preference occurs in freshwater, yet optimal adult development occurs at moderate salinities around 25 psu.
Octotoma championi
lantana leafminer, lantana leaf beetle
Octotoma championi is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, commonly known as the lantana leafminer or lantana leaf beetle. Native to Central and North America, it has been introduced to Australia, Fiji, Hawaii, and South Africa as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Lantana camara. The species has a leaf-mining larval phase and free-living, leaf-chewing adults. Research indicates its development and consumption rates are sensitive to elevated CO2 and temperature conditions.
Orthotomicus
Orthotomicus is a genus of bark beetles in the family Curculionidae, subfamily Scolytinae, containing approximately nine described species. The genus is primarily associated with coniferous trees, particularly pines (Pinus spp.) and cedars (Cedrus spp.). Several species, notably Orthotomicus erosus (Mediterranean pine engraver) and O. laricis, have become significant forest pests through native population outbreaks and invasive range expansions. Species in this genus are known for their associations with ophiostomatoid fungi, which they vector and which contribute to tree decline.
Orthotomicus erosus
Mediterranean pine engraver
Orthotomicus erosus, the Mediterranean pine engraver, is a bark beetle native to the Mediterranean region, southern Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is primarily a secondary pest that colonizes stressed, weakened, or recently dead pine trees, but can reach outbreak levels and attack healthy trees during drought conditions or following fire. The species has expanded its range through domestic and international trade, with established populations in South America (Argentina and Uruguay) and South Africa. It vectors multiple ophiostomatoid fungi, including Ophiostoma ips, which contribute to blue staining and tree decline.
Oxycarenus
ground bugs, seed bugs
Oxycarenus is a genus of ground bugs in the family Oxycarenidae, comprising approximately 55 described species. Several species are documented as important agricultural pests, particularly of cotton and other malvaceous crops. The genus exhibits notable range expansion dynamics in response to climate change, with some species demonstrating rapid northward spread facilitated by behavioral thermoregulation.
Phloeosinus cupressi
cypress bark beetle
Phloeosinus cupressi is a crenulate bark beetle native to North America that has become invasive in Australia and New Zealand. It poses a serious threat to Cupressus trees and related conifers, with potential ecological and economic impacts globally. Climate change is projected to expand its suitable habitat northward by approximately 18% under RCP6.0 scenarios.
Phortica
Phortica is a genus of small flies in the family Drosophilidae, subfamily Steganinae. Several species are medically significant as biological vectors of the zoonotic eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda, which causes ocular infections in humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. The genus includes at least five species in Europe and the Middle East, with P. variegata and P. okadai being the best-documented vectors. These flies exhibit unusual zoophilic feeding behaviors, including lachryphagy (tear-feeding) in adult males of some species. The genus has gained increasing attention due to climate-driven range shifts and expanding transmission of thelaziosis.
Prostephanus truncatus
Larger Grain Borer, Greater Grain Borer
Prostephanus truncatus, commonly known as the larger grain borer or greater grain borer, is a highly destructive beetle in the family Bostrichidae. Native to Mexico and Central America where it evolved as a wood-boring insect, it adapted to become a major pest of stored maize. The species was accidentally introduced to Tanzania, Africa in the late 1970s and subsequently spread throughout sub-Saharan Africa, where it additionally adapted to cassava as an alternate host. Populations can destroy up to 40% of stored maize in three months and cause estimated losses of 52-74% of stored cassava. Climate modeling indicates potential for further range expansion into the southern United States, South America, and tropical Asia.
Psorophora
gallinipper
Psorophora is a genus of large mosquitoes in the subfamily Culicinae, tribe Aedini, described by Robineau-Desvoidy in 1827. The genus comprises approximately 50 species distributed across the Americas, with three recognized subgenera: Psorophora, Janthinosoma, and Grabhamia. Several species, notably Psorophora ciliata and P. ferox, are among the largest mosquitoes in the world and are known for aggressive biting behavior. Larvae of some species are obligate predators with specialized anatomical adaptations for capturing prey.
Psorophora ferox
White-footed Woods Mosquito
Psorophora ferox is a medium-sized floodplain mosquito native to the Americas, commonly known as the white-footed woods mosquito. It inhabits wet woodlands and temporary pools, with eggs requiring flooding to hatch. The species has expanded its range northward in recent years, becoming increasingly dominant in floodplain mosquito communities in the northeastern United States. Adults are aggressive biters with painful bites and are active during both day and night.
Pulex irritans
Human Flea, House Flea
Pulex irritans is a cosmopolitan flea species commonly known as the human flea. Despite its name, it has a broad host range including humans, dogs, cats, livestock, and various wild mammals. The species is thought to have originated in South America, possibly associated with guinea pigs or peccaries as original hosts. It is one of only six species in the genus Pulex, with the other five restricted to Nearctic and Neotropical regions. P. irritans has been found in human archaeological sediments dating back thousands of years in Europe and Greenland, demonstrating its long association with human populations. The species is medically significant as a potential vector of plague (Yersinia pestis), murine typhus, trench fever (Bartonella quintana), flea-borne spotted fever (Rickettsia felis), and the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum.
Pycnoderes quadrimaculatus
bean capsid
Pycnoderes quadrimaculatus, commonly known as the bean capsid, is a plant-feeding mirid bug native to North and Central America. The species has expanded its range to South America and the Caribbean, with records from Oceania suggesting further spread. Ecological niche modeling indicates potential for establishment in diverse climatic regions worldwide, raising concerns about its capacity to become an agricultural pest on multiple continents.
Rhopalapion
Rhopalapion is a genus of brentid weevils characterized by an elongate body, elongate antennal club, and strong sexual dimorphism in rostrum length, with females possessing a noticeably longer rostrum. The genus is strictly associated with Malvaceae host plants in the genus Alcea. Two species are currently recognized: the widespread and rapidly expanding R. longirostre (hollyhock weevil), and the more geographically restricted R. celatum from the Turanian Region. R. longirostre has undergone dramatic range expansion since the 1960s from central Asia across Europe to North America, attributed to climate change response and anthropogenic dispersal.
Scyphophorus acupunctatus
agave weevil, sisal weevil, picudo del agave
Scyphophorus acupunctatus is a specialized weevil native to Central and North America that has become a globally significant pest of agaves and related plants. Adults bore into agave stalks and rosettes, creating entry points for pathogenic bacteria and fungi that ultimately kill the host plant. The species has established invasive populations across Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and South America, facilitated by the international trade of ornamental agaves. Its economic impact is particularly severe on Agave tequilana, threatening the tequila industry, and on wild agave populations important for mezcal production and ecosystem stability.