Genomic resources for two indigenous pest beetles of rising importance in the context of climate change

Funding period: 2024-2028
Lead: Daniel Doucet
Total GRDI funding: $209,000

The project objective is to generate genomic resources for the white spotted sawyer (WS, Monochamus scutellatus), and the bronze birch borer (BBB, Agrilus anxius), two forest pest species which could emerge as potential threats in a changing climate. This will further our understanding of their adaptations under a changing climate, including host-tree interactions and host-natural enemies interactions. Complete genomes for both species will enable the identification of key genes responsible for host tree detection and resistance against tree secondary metabolites. The study will also seek to generate draft genomes of BBB parasitoids to increase our knowledge on this poorly known trophic level. Since BBB is a potential invasive for Europe, the long-term benefits from the project's knowledge outputs include preservation of Canada's market access for birch-derived wood products. As for WS, a fire-associated species, genomic knowledge should enhance survey and detection practices.