Proposal

Abstract:

Background: The Stigmella multispicata was observed for the first time in Russia in 2014. There has been confirmed observations in the US but only in Siberian Elm (Ulmus pumila). 

Need: Is this parasite yet another predator of the American Elm (Ulmus americana).

Research: Conformation of the presence of S. multispicata in U. americana by collecting leaves with leafminer activity that is consistant with the S. multispicata. Collect sample larve that can be incubated/grown in a labratory environment into adult form. Confirm that the tree is infact an U. americana. 

Significance: This would be the first observed and confirmed instance of S. multispicata in an U americana.