Field Studies on Attack Flight and Log Selection by the Ambrosia Beetle Trypodendron lineatum (Oliv.) (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)

Abstract

Investigations in 1959 (Dyer and Kinghorn, 1961) revealed a large overwintering population of the ambrosia beetle, Trypodendron lineatum (Oliv.), in a level accessible stand of timber. It was decided to use this location for field studies on attack behaviour of this insect, with three general objectives in mind: 1) direct observation of beetles as they searched for and found suitable log material; 2) experimental verification by means of various ‘hidden log’ situations, with controls, of the importance of smell in the beetles' search, and 3) observation and measurement of differences in attractiveness between logs during the flight period.