Asian Long-horned Beetle dispersal potential estimated in computer-linked flight mills

The Asian Long-horned Beetle (ALB) is a highly polyphagous species invasive in North America and Europe. This species has been reported to have low dispersing potential, but long-distance dispersal could occasionally happen. We conducted a preliminary study on laboratory-reared adults from invasive populations to measure the flying potential of beetles using computer-linked flight mills. Under standardized conditions, ALB was capable of flying over longer distances than previously described. The highest distance recorded over an adult lifespan outreached 14km. Flight mill method is therefore useful to estimate the maximum physiological flight abilities of the species that should be taken into account to improve management of invasive populations.