Abstract
Dendroctonus Erichson is a relatively small genus, but one with a disproportionately large impact on coniferous forests. Its name is particularly suitable (. Dendro- tree, -. tonus destroyer) for a group that contains most of the major conifer-killing bark beetles in the world. The ability of several members of the genus to develop outbreaks and the strong response of several species to anthropogenic change makes these insects of significant economic and ecological importance. The group is also interesting from an evolutionary perspective because of the varied life history strategies and symbiotic associations of its members. This chapter synthesizes a vast and broad literature on Dendroctonus and examines how new approaches are rapidly adding to our understanding of this important group.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Bark Beetles |
Subtitle of host publication | Biology and Ecology of Native and Invasive Species |
Publisher | Elsevier Inc. |
Pages | 305-350 |
Number of pages | 46 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780124171732 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780124171565 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 8 2015 |
Keywords
- Anthropogenic change
- Bark beetle
- Climate change
- Dendroctonus
- Insect outbreak
- Symbiosis