Utilizing citizen science for accurate global prediction of the invasive gall-inducing insects, Ophelimus maskelli (Ashmead, 1900) and Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle, 2004 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), on Eucalyptus L'Hér. (Myrtaceae) trees

Gall-inducing insects engage in intricate interactions with their host plants, significantly affecting ecosystem health. Invasive gall-inducing insects, however, pose detection challenges and can cause significant, often irreversible damage. Citizen science may play an important role in establishing an integrated framework and conducting comprehensive monitoring of such invasive species. We propose utilizing the iNaturalist platform to gather and systematize these interactions through a two-step method aimed at assessing the distribution of invasive gall-inducing insects and their host plants. The widespread global gall-inducing insects, i.e., Ophelimus maskelli (Ashmead, 1900) and Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle, 2004 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), were selected as targets for modeling. The first step involves gathering and establishing the connections between gall-inducing insects and their host plants, followed by performing a spatial distribution prediction based on niche modeling. Subsequently, we conduct a thorough analysis of the existing literature and examine various physiological factors. Then, we aim to develop potential distribution models that allow us to assess the extent of endangerment posed to ecosystem health. The distribution of invasive gall-inducing species on Eucalyptus L'Hér. (Myrtaceae) plantations have been revealed through observations on the iNaturalist platform. Notably, there has been an expansion towards higher latitudes observed at certain sites. Citizen participation enriches research and enhances public scientific knowledge, which is vital for informing conservation policies and implementing green subsidies.