Insect Pests Affecting Exotic Trees in Chile and Their Management

Abstract

The Chilean forestry industry, the second most important economic activity in the country, is mostly based on exotic tree species. Forest plantations of Pinus radiata and Eucalyptus spp. have been affected by several insect invasions in recent years. These new invasions pose a challenge for the Chilean forest industry, making it necessary to adopt new silvicultural techniques and sanitary protocols for exporting wood products. In addition to commercial plantations, insect invasions are also occurring in urban areas: poplars, elms, and other ornamental trees have seen the introduction of several exotic insects. The effect of these pests has been perceived as a major threat for the environmental quality of cities, and public opinion is increasingly demanding action from the government to minimize their impact. Considering the increasing rate of detection of exotic insects in Chile, it has become clear that invasive insects represent a current threat for Chilean forests, and immediate action is needed from the government, private companies, and society to minimize their negative consequences. In this review, we trace the history of the major insect pests damaging exotic trees in Chile and the multiple activities adopted for their control. We review the most documented insect pests to trace the evolution of control alternatives from the prevalence of chemical control at the beginning of the twentieth century to the emphasis on biological and silvicultural control in the last three decades.