Update on invasive species initiatives in the Dominican Republic

Abstract

Serra et al. (2003) reviewed the status of invasive species (agricultural pests including arthropods, plant diseases and plants) introduced into the Dominican Republic (DR) in recent decades and also listed species with potential to be introduced. Very recent introductions include the lime swallowtail, Papilio demoleus (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae), native to Asia, which since its detection at the eastern end of Hispaniola has spread over DR's citrus-growing areas in the eastern and central regions and has reached those in the southwest. Recent invasive species initiatives by various scientists in the DR include: (1) establishment of the IABIN database for the DR, (2) convening of the Vth Caribbean Biodiversity Symposium, (3) a program to detect exotic fruit flies (4) a survey on distribution of reported fruit-fly species and their host plants, (5) evaluation of attractants and traps for fruit flies, (6) the emergence of parasitoids from several fruits, especially of mangos and Spondias spp., (7) several research activities on quite damaging invasive arthropod pest species such as the pigeon-pea pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa), including surveys on damage, distribution of the pest and its natural enemies, trapping, host-plant range, chemical control and varietal responses.