The biology and impact of the lodgepole terminal weevil in the Cariboo Forest Region

• Main Author: Maher, T. F.
• Language: English
• Published: 2010
• Subjects: Lodgepole pine > Diseases and pests
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2429/22939

The objectives of this study were to define the life history of the lodgepole terminal weevil (Pissodes terminalis Hopping) in the Cariboo Forest Region, to quantify the magnitude of damage resulting from weevil attacks, and to determine if P. terminalis activity was associated with measurable tree and stand parameters such as leader dimensions and density. Four study plots in juvenile lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Dougl. var. latifolia Engelm.) stands near Riske Creek, B. C. were selected to provide data on the biology of the lodgepole terminal weevil. In each plot, weekly collections of 10 weevil-attacked terminal shoots were made from June 3 to August 29, 1980, and monthly collections were taken during September through November. All leaders were dissected and the numbers of each P. terminalis life stage and associated predators/parasitiods were recorded. Seventy-one survey plots in lodgepole pine stands between 8 and 29 years of age throughout the Cariboo Forest Region were assessed for weevil activity. Each survey plot contained 25 trees over 2 metres in height, and each tree was measured for height, diameter at breast height, leader length, and basal leader diameter. Stand age, elevation, density, and all weevil attacks (including year of attack and type of resultant stem deformity) were also recorded. Weevil development appeared to be fairly uniform regardless of stand density and/or elevation; therefore, the data from all four biology study plots were combined to construct a life history diagram. In 46% of the survey plots one or both of the leader dimensions was significantly greater for attacked trees as compared to unattacked trees. In 28% of the plots attacked trees were either significantly taller or larger in diameter. Over 50% of the trees in stands of less than 4,000 stems per hectare had been attacked by P. terminalis at least once. Severe stem deformities such as forks and "stag-heads" comprised a larger proportion of damaged trees in the lower stand density classes. Weevil activity appeared to be higher in 1980 than in 1979. It was concluded that the lodgepole terminal weevil is currently a widely distributed and serious pest of young lodgepole pine stands in the Cariboo Forest Region. Given the present levels of weevil-caused damage as well as the possibility of future attacks, it was recommended that the activity of P. terminalis be considered when silvicultural practices such as juvenile spacing are undertaken in these stands. === Forestry, Faculty of === Graduate