Pityogenes chalcographus is among the most frequent species that cause significant damage to conifers, being an oligophagous species, besides Picea trees, being frequent on Pinus sp., Larix sp. or Pseudotsuga sp. In Romania it is considered a secondary pest, the attack being most often associated with another bark beetle, in Spain however, it is mentioned as an invasive species, being mentioned recently, on relatively small areas. In the western part of Romania, the species is common in conifer stands from forests, but our research highlights its presence in the green areas of Timișoara's landscaping (University of Life Sciences Park), on white pine. In the Madrid area, the species has a secondary value, being mentioned in overpopulated or ecologically stressed stands (bibliographic analysis). A total of 26 specimens of Pityogenes chalcographus were identified on Pinus strobus trees during this study, 15 specimens in the sun-exposed sides of the trunk and 11 in the shaded sides. Pityogenes chalcographus is of major importance in urban green landscaping where numerous conifer species are found. Occupies trees that have been damaged, debilitated, preferring the sunny area of the trunks. Future research must be undertaken to follow the evolution of the attack on other Pinus species as well.

Pityogenes chalcographus, Curculionidae, Scolytine, pine trees, Romania, Spain

biology

Presentation: poster