Distribution and spread of Adozyphmus couloni (Burmeister) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) on Banks Peninsula, Canterbury

Abstract

A survey was conducted on Banks Peninsula, Canterbury to determine the present distribution of the subterranean pasture pest Adoryphorus couloni and to assess its potential for further spread. A. couloni has spread from previously known infestations and is now estimated to occupy 7100 ha. In particular, several sites in Gebbies Valley and near McQueens Pass have been colonized by A. couloni and invasion of the Canterbury Plains is possible. Using historical survey data and a simple reaction diffusion model of dispersal the rate of spread of A. couloni was estimated as 1.14 km/year.

Keywords:

• Adoryphorus couloni
• distribution
• spread