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Distribution of Some Predators and Parasites of the Southern Pine Beetle in Two Species of Pine

Abstract

Southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmerman, and its natural insect enemies were reared from infested loblolly pines, Pinus taeda L., and shortleaf pines, P. echinata Mill. Southern pine beetle broods were most dense during spring (Mar.-May) and least dense in late summer. Populations were higher in late winter than in midsummer. There were no differences in beetle densities between the pine species. Twelve predators and 9 parasites comprised ca. 99% of the natural enemy complex. Total density of the 12 predators did not vary with either season or tree species. Total parasite density, however, was highest in midsummer, lowest in late winter, and was significantly higher in shortleaf pine. Species diversity of predators and parasites was highest during spring and summer seasons and varied significantly between tree species

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