A dedicated database for the analysis of the main drivers of the global distribution of the seed beetle Stator limbatus (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae)

Stator limbatus (Horn, 1873) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae), a polyphagous seed beetle native to hot and dry areas of North, Central and South America, was first reported for Europe in 2021, in the islands of Sardinia (Italy) and Corsica (France), where it has established on some Acacia species. This beetle has the potential of becoming an invasive species in Europe in view of its biological traits, such as a high phenotypic plasticity, local adaption to host species, and generalist habit. Interestingly, S. limbatus was reported in Europe on Acacia mearnsii and Acacia saligna, which are two well-known invasive trees outcompeting native vegetation in many areas of high conservation value. Acacia saligna is an invasive alien species of (European) Union concern (Reg. EU n. 1143/2014) quite widespread in the Mediterranean, while A. mearnsii, despite being a species commonly used in forestry at the global level, is less common in the Mediterranean region. Therefore, the potential spread of S. limbatus in the Mediterranean and in Europe, and consequently the potential impacts due to its spread, deserves further studies. With this aim, based on a systematic literature review and collection of information from key international experts on this beetle, we implemented a georeferenced database with worldwide records of S. limbatus, its host plants, data on local climate and habitat types, biological and biogeographical information on the hosts: native range, status in the recorded location (e.g., native, naturalized, exotic, invasive), and type of fruit, as well as available genetic information on the seed beetle and host species. The dedicated database will disentangle the main drivers affecting S. limbatus global distribution, and support spatial suitability models and risk evaluation.