GWSS distribution |
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GWSS is native to the southeast U.S.A. and northeast Mexico. In the late 1980's, this pest invaded California via transport of ornamental plants containing eggs. Propagules from California most likely caused the GWSS invasion of the South Pacific (Hawaii and French Polynesia) where this pest has spread progressively across several South Pacific islands. GWSS invaded Tahiti in 1999 and Hawaï in 2004. It was recently detected in Easter Island (2005), probably having arrived with plant material originating from French Polynesia. world distribution of GWSS (red on the map) |
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French Polynesia |
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In French Polynesia, GWSS reproduced and spread very rapidly and is currently found in almost all islands in the Society Island group (Tahiti [invaded in 1999], Moorea [2002], Tahaa, Raiatea, Huahine, Bora Bora, Maupiti [2001-2005] and has also been recorded in Nuku Hiva in the Marquesas (2004), in Tubuai and Rurutu (both 2005), and in the Australs (2005). It is unknown if GWSS is in the Tuamotu or Gambier group of islands. Following successful incursion, GWSS populations in Tahiti and Moorea reached densities far exceeding those observed in its native range or even California where populations are much greater than those observed in the southeast USA. |
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GWSS distribution in French Polynesia |
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Incursion risks to other countries |
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The enormous density of GWSS in French Polynesia represents an immediate and significant threat to other South Pacific nations and trading partners (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, Chile, France, and Japan). Adult GWSS have been found on planes originating from Tahiti arriving in Japan and in Australia. Climate match modelling suggests many other areas of the world are highly vulnerable to invasion by GWSS. |
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potential distribution of GWSS (blue on the map) |
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