Site Quality in Relation to Damage by Locust Borer, Megacyllene robiniae Forster in Black Locust

Abstract

Forty-three study sites within eight counties in Maryland were utilized in an investigation of Site Index in relation to attack by the locust borer, Megacyllene robiniae (Forster), on the black locus tree, Robinia pseudoacacia L. In addition, several other factors related to borer attack intensity were tested for relationship with Site Index of black locust. Site Index was found to be negatively correlated with borer tunnels per tree, i.e., sites with higher Site Indices had statistically fewer borer attacks per tree. Positive correlation was also inferred between Site Index, borer attacks, and (1) scarring from previous year's borer attacks, (2) herbaceous biomass within-site, (3) elevation above sea level, (4) soil factors, including pH, %sand, silt, and clay.