Bark beetles in the genus Dendroctonus

Abstract

The genus Dendroctonus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), originally described by Erichson in 1836, currently includes 19 species that are widely distributed. Seventeen species occur between Arctic North America and northwestern Nicaragua, and an additional two species are in northern Europe and Asia. Dendroctonus species attack and infest conifer hosts (Pinaceae) in the genera Larix, Picea, Pinus, and Pseudotsuga. Species within the genus can be identified by the host species they attack, egg gallery patterns, population behavior, and morphological distinctions. The smallest species is D. frontalis (male length 2.0­3.2 mm) and the largest is D. valens (male length 5.3­8.3 mm). Members of the Dendroctonus genus, which means "tree killers," are noted as the most economically and ecologically significant species affecting forest ecosystems in western North America. Tree mortality resulting from Dendroctonus outbreaks can adversely affect timber management, forest planning, and recreational opportunities. In contrast, disturbance events caused by native bark beetle species are important drivers of forest succession, foster heterogeneity and biodiversity, promotebiomass recycling, and play a critical role in the fire ecology and overall health of many ecosystems.

Citation

Bentz, Barbara J. 2008. Bark beetles in the genus Dendroctonus. In: Capinera, John L., ed. Encyclopedia of Entomology (2nd Edition). Heidelberg, Germany: Springer Science Business Media B.V. p. 379-381.