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Project partners: Freie Universität Bozen, Italy.
Contact person: Hannes Schuler;
Function of the Project Partner: Koordinator; Università degli Studi di Padova, Italy.
Contact person: Massimo Faccoli;
Function of the Project Partner: Partner

BOKU Research Units: Institute of Forest Entomology, Forest Pathology and Forest Protection

Abstract: The spruce bark beetle, Ips typographus, is the most important pest of spruce in Europe. Mass outbreaks of this bark beetle occur mainly after abiotic disturbances, such as windthrow or snowbreak. Such abiotic events occurred in the Dolomiti Live region due to severe weather events in 2018 and 2019, providing large amounts of suitable breeding material.
Detailed knowledge of the biology and ecology of I. typographus is therefore essential and is the basis for an effective management. In this project, three main topics will be addressed, which should ultimately lead to improved management strategies.
First, the fungal and bacterial symbionts of the beetles will be characterized. In addition, the genetic structure of I. typographus will be analyzed in order to be able to draw conclusions about its pest potential. Another focus is the analysis of aerial and satellite images, which should enable the early detection of infested trees.
This innovative project will not only provide new insights about the biology of I. typographus in the Dolomiti Live region, but it will also provide important practical information on which local forestry authorities and forest owners can base a sustainable management of this important pest.
https://www.rmo.at/projekte-und-foerderberatung/projekte/8-projekte/421-itat-4153-verbreitungsdynamik-und-populationsentwicklung-des-buchdruckers-in-den-dolomiten-dolomips2

Keywords: General biology; Genetics; Forest entomology; Forest protection;; Bacterial symbionts; GIS; Ips typographus; Fungal symbionts; Population genetics;