The impact of this invasive beetle can be detrimental in both urban and natural environments. Urban environments are more fragmented and disturbed, with higher chances of trees being stressed. Vectors of transmission are numerous, possibly increasing spread and leading to high tree mortality.
The legacy material describes potential loss of heritage or iconic trees, de-greening of urban environments, and risks to indigenous and endemic trees and associated biodiversity. It also notes that contaminated wood products may harbour invasive individuals and that management practices and infrastructure affect control efforts.
The source quotes estimates of R275 billion in costs to South Africa and 65 million urban trees at risk, and links to a 2022 news report: https://www.businesslive.co.za/bloomberg/news/2022-05-26-borer-beetle-could-wipe-out-a-quarter-of-sas-urban-trees.
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