Implications of population phases on the integrated pest management of the southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis

Abstract

The southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann, has three population phases. In the latent phase, southern pine beetle-initiated infestations are absent, and southern pine beetle functions as a secondary bark beetle when present. The outbreak phase results when one or more multi-tree infestations are detected per 1,000 acres of susceptible host type, and the southern pine beetle acts as an aggressive primary colonizer. The intermediate phase consists of population levels between latent and outbreak. The characteristics of these three phases have management implications, and the integrated pest management (IPM) program for the southern pine beetle should be tailored for each phase. Recommendations for each phase are provided and discussed. Prevention and restoration are primary management concerns in the latent phase, whereas suppression takes precedence during an outbreak.