Beskydy 2013, 6, 117-126
Development of cambioxylophagous insect fauna on blue spruce after chemical thinning
Chemical thinning performed in stands of blue spruce (Picea pungens) in air-polluted areas of the Ore Mountains does not pose a significant threat of sub-bark pest outbreaks. Application of the herbicide Roundup in autumn and in spring caused dieback of the treated trees where mainly Hylurgops palliatus became active and completed its development. Pests Ips amitinus and Pityogenes chalcographus died mostly at larval stage, despite their high abundance. Cryphalus abietis completed its development only on thicker branches and was not able to occupy tops of trees due to fast dieback of phloem. Quality of phloem was strongly affected by the speed of defoliation.
Keywords
herbicide Roundup, chemical thinning, Picea pungens, Hylurgops palliatus, Ips amitinus, Pityogenes chalcographus, Ore Mountains.
