Role of the Mountain Pine Beetle in Lodgepole Pine Ecosystems : Impact on Succession
Document Type
Contribution to Book
Journal/Book Title/Conference
The Role of Arthropods in Forest Ecosystem
Publication Date
1977
First Page
3
Last Page
18
Abstract
The mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae (Coleoptera : Scolytidae), is the most aggressive member of its genus in the western United States. Populations of the beetle periodically build up and kill most of the large dominant lodgepole pines, Pinus contorta var. latifolia, over vast acreages. The beetle is indigenous to North America and probably has been active in lodgepole pine ecosystems almost as long as lodgepole pine has existed. Frequency of infestations in a given area of forest appears to range from about 20 to 40 years, depending upon how rapidly some trees in the stand grow to large diameter and produce thick phloem, conditions conducive to buildup of beetle populations. In addition, trees must be at a latitude and elevation where temperatures are favorable for beetle development.
Recommended Citation
Amman, G. (1977). Role of the mountain pine beetle in lodgepole pine ecosystems : impact on succession. In: W.J. Mattson (ed) The Role of Arthropods in Forest Ecosystem, pp. 3-18. Springer-Verlag, New York.
Comments
This item was written and prepared by U.S. Government employees on official time, and is therefore in the public domain.