Mountain Pine Beetle

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dendroctonus ponderosae: //ˌdɛnˈdrɒktənəs ˌpɒndəˈroʊsaɪ//

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Summary

Dendroctonus ponderosae, commonly known as the mountain pine beetle, is a bark beetle that infests pine forests across western North America. Its presence can lead to widespread tree mortality, particularly exacerbated by climate change, resulting in significant ecological and economic impacts.

Physical Characteristics

Hard black exoskeleton, approximately 4-7.5 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Size is similar to a grain of rice; identification may include examining characteristics of bark damage and the presence of pitch tubes on host trees.

Habitat

Native to the forests of western North America, primarily inhabiting various species of pine trees, including ponderosa, whitebark, lodgepole, Scots, jack, limber, Rocky Mountain bristlecone, and Great Basin bristlecone pine trees.

Distribution

Ranges from northern Mexico to central British Columbia.

Diet

Infests a broad range of Pinus species, primarily those that are old or weakened.

Life Cycle

Beetles develop through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult, with life cycles generally taking one year in low elevation areas but up to two years in higher elevations.

Reproduction

Females initiate attacks by chewing into the inner bark and releasing pheromones to attract males, resulting in mass attacks on trees.

Predators

Predators include various birds, particularly woodpeckers, and other insects.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a vital role in forest ecology by preying on weak trees, thus aiding in forest rejuvenation.

Economic Impact

Significant forestry pest leading to dead timber which disrupts the forestry industry.

Cultural Significance

A giant effigy of a mountain pine beetle is set on fire each winter in Custer, South Dakota as part of local culture.

Health Concerns

Certain pesticides used to control beetle populations have potential health risks for humans and wildlife.

Collecting Methods

• Pheromone baiting
• Sanitation harvesting
• Snip and skid
• Controlled burning
• Fall and burn

Preservation Methods

• Freezing
• Drying

Similar Taxa

• Dendroctonus brevicomis
• Dendroctonus rufipennis

Misconceptions

Often mischaracterized solely as tree killers; actually play an important ecological role.

Tags

• Mountain Pine Beetle
• Dendroctonus ponderosae
• Forestry Pest
• Climate Change
• Pine Infestation