An analysis of an outbreak of the woodwasp, Sirex noctilio F. (Hymenoptera, Siricidae), in Pinus radiata

Abstract

The development of an outbreak of the woodwasp, Sirex noctilio F., in a 30-year-old population of Pinus radiata in Tasmania was traced by growth ring analysis of killed trees. The outbreak probably developed from small foci; it reached its peak when the trees were 18–19 years old and then declined rapidly. Attack per tree was directly related to the density of emergents from trees killed in the previous season and the intensity of oviposition drilling was modified by the rainfall during the emergence season; the frequency of treble oviposition drills was directly related to summer rainfall. Survival of insects within trees declined with the years; this was related to the greater vigour and resistance of the surviving trees, but was apparently modified by spring rainfall. Resinosis and polyphenols associated with growth rings in stems living in 1964 indicated an increase in the proportion of trees resisting attack during the outbreak. The growth patterns of attacked and unattacked trees, and the obvious susceptibility of the weaker understorey trees, are discussed and due attention to site quality and plantation management are recommended to reduce Sirex attack in future.