Use of semiochemicals of secondary bark beetles to disrupt spruce beetle attraction and survival in Alaska.

Abstract

Field experiments using baited multiple-funnel traps and baited felled trees were conducted to test the hypothesis that semiochemicals from secondary species of scolytids could be used to disrupt spruce beetle (Dendroctonus rufipennis (Kirby)) attraction. Semiochemicals from three secondary species of scolytids, (Ips perturbatus (Eichhoff)) [(±)-ipsdienol], Dryocoetes affaber (Mannerheim) [(±)-exo- and (±)-endo-brevicomin], and Polygraphus rufipennis (Kirby) [methyl butenol] were used to disrupt spruce beetle trap catches and reduce attacks on felled trees. Trap catches of spruce beetles were reduced by 87 percent by the combinations of semiochemicals from these secondary scolytids. Addition of MCH (methylcyclohexenone) to these semiochemicals reduced attack density by 62 to 87 percent. Results indicate that inducing attacks by I. perturbatus and D. affaber on felled susceptible host trees by using semiochemicals could be a viable method to minimize spruce beetle attack and brood development.

Citation

Werner, Richard A.; Holsten, Edward H. 2002. Use of semiochemicals of secondary bark beetles to disrupt spruce beetle attraction and survival in Alaska. Res. Pap. PNW-RP-541. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 11 p