Ips typographus tree pest found on new species

Ips typographus tree pest found on new species

Ips typographus, commonly known as the European spruce bark beetle, is a significant pest responsible for extensive damage to coniferous forests across Europe and parts of Asia. Typically, it infests Norway spruce (Picea abies), its primary host, leading to widespread forest degradation. However, recent findings indicate that Ips typographus has begun attacking new tree species, raising concerns among forest managers and ecologists. The pest was recently found on Sitka spruce trees in the UK for the first time.

The finding of Ips typographus, on a small number of cut and fallen Sitka spruce trees in close proximity to infested Norway spruce trees on a site in West Sussex, marks the first time the beetle has been discovered on this species. There is currently no evidence of further spread within the UK and the recent outbreaks are most likely due to natural dispersal of the pest from mainland Europe.

The beetle's expansion to new host species is alarming, as it suggests an increase in its adaptability and potential to spread to different forest ecosystems. One of the newly affected species is the Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), which was previously considered less susceptible to Ips typographus infestations. This shift in host preference is believed to be driven by environmental changes, including rising temperatures and droughts, which stress trees and make them more vulnerable to pests.

The lifecycle of Ips typographus involves laying eggs under the bark of weakened trees. The larvae then feed on the phloem, disrupting the tree's ability to transport nutrients, eventually killing it. The beetle's ability to reproduce rapidly under favourable conditions, combined with its new target species, poses a significant threat to forest health. Infestations can lead to the death of vast tracts of forests, which in turn affects biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and local economies dependent on timber.

Efforts to manage this pest involve monitoring beetle populations, promoting tree diversity to reduce vulnerability, and implementing control measures such as pheromone traps and biological control agents. However, the emergence of Ips typographus on new species underscores the need for ongoing research to understand the factors driving this change and to develop effective strategies to mitigate its impact on forest ecosystems.

For full Government Guidance on this pest, which includes new felling and movement restrictions, see > Ips typographus – Latest Guidance