Their study showed that the trees were not dying solely from disease, drought, or old age, but from infestations by the mango-stem borer, a highly aggressive beetle. Of the 91 baobab trees surveyed in Oman, six had been killed by the beetle, while larvae infested a further 12 trees. “This is the first time an insect has been found to kill adult baobab trees. She added that their research enables early detection and the exploration of effective control measures before the beetle reaches Africa. Although native to Southeast Asia, the mango-stem borer could devastate African baobabs, which are considered a keystone species critical to ecosystems and local livelihoods.

Source: Standard Digital March 02, 2026 01:48 UTC