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Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants
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Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants

A special issue of Forests (ISSN 1999-4907). This special issue belongs to the section "Forest Ecology and Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2024) | Viewed by 27487

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Katarína Pastirčáková

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Plant Pathology and Mycology, Institute of Forest Ecology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Nitra, Slovakia
Interests: fungal diseases of woody plants; pathogen biology; fungal taxonomy and diversity; plant protection
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Rostislav Zemek

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Institute of Entomology, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
Interests: arthropod ecology and behavior; insect and mite pests and their natural enemies; predator–prey interactions; biological pest control; entomopathogenic fungi
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Woody plants are the hosts of many organisms. While herbivorous and pathogenic species are considered to be harmful organisms, there are also many beneficial organisms, e.g., natural enemies of pests, associated with woody plants. These beneficial organisms play an important role in the health of wild woody plants, production forests, as well as ornamental woody plant vegetation in green spaces, i.e., city parks, gardens and urban forests. Although interactions between woody plants and herbivores have been intensively studied, less known are interactions among woody plant-inhabiting organisms. For example, the study on mycoparasitic and endophytically grown entomopathogenic fungi can have implications for the control of woody plant fungal pathogens and pests, respectively. Some deciduous tree species are important reservoirs of predatory mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) which help us control phytophagous mites in orchards and vineyards in their vicinity. A positive effect of abandoned leaf mines on the density of phytoseiid mites is another example of a complex interaction. Moreover, climate changes are likely to affect the development, survival and spread of woody plant-inhabiting organisms, a topic which needs to be investigated in the future. Due to deteriorating ecological conditions (long-term periods of drought, an increase in average annual temperatures, changes in hydrological conditions, air pollution), the decreasing physiological activity of woody plants arise with the subsequent activation of insect pests and fungal pathogens. Forest tree decline caused by bark beetles and their fungal associates are still subject of extensive research worldwide due to the significant knowledge gaps existing in their biology, ecology, epidemiology and management, as well as due to the insufficient knowledge on the different types of bark beetle–fungus interactions.

This Special Issue aims to present the recent advances in the knowledge on the biodiversity and ecological aspects of beneficial and harmful organisms inhabiting or somehow associated with woody plants. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to, the following: above and belowground communities, micro and macroorganisms, population density, seasonal changes, invasive pests and pathogens, pollinators, natural enemies, mutualistic interactions, competition, the effects of pollution and global warming, methods and modelling.

This Special Issue will focus on cutting-edge research in the field of woody plant–pathogen and woody plant—arthropod interactions and their combinations.

This Special Issue will accept studies from broad research topics related to all organisms associated with woody plants growing in different types of ecosystems. Studies conducted in the field are preferred but laboratory studies, including theoretical approaches (simulation modelling studies and literature reviews) are also of interest. Short communications on methods or presenting preliminary but significant results will also be considered.

Dr. Katarína Pastirčáková
Dr. Rostislav Zemek
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Forests is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

  • biodiversity
  • arthropod pests and diseases
  • microorganisms
  • forest and ornamental trees
  • invasive species
  • population dynamics
  • multitrophic interactions
  • climate change
  • abiotic factors

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Published Papers (16 papers)

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Editorial

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6 pages, 556 KiB  
Editorial
Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants
by Katarína Pastirčáková and Rostislav Zemek
Forests 2025, 16(2), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16020283 - 7 Feb 2025
Viewed by 648
Abstract
Woody plants serve as hosts for a vast array of organisms, ranging from herbivores and pathogenic species—often considered detrimental—to beneficial organisms that contribute to plant health and ecosystem stability [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)

Research

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13 pages, 2616 KiB  
Article
Ecological Traits of Three Species of Xiphydria Woodwasps from Japan: Host Tree Species and Eggs, Symbiotic Fungi, and Mucus in Their Bodies
by Ryu Takagi and Hisashi Kajimura
Forests 2025, 16(2), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16020264 - 1 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 756
Abstract
Woodwasps (Siricidae and Xiphydriidae) inhabit living, weakened, or freshly dead trees and their larvae feed on sapwood. Siricidae have been intensively researched for pest management. In contrast, the ecology of Xiphydriidae remains largely unknown. In the present study, we collected xiphydriid woodwasp adults [...] Read more.
Woodwasps (Siricidae and Xiphydriidae) inhabit living, weakened, or freshly dead trees and their larvae feed on sapwood. Siricidae have been intensively researched for pest management. In contrast, the ecology of Xiphydriidae remains largely unknown. In the present study, we collected xiphydriid woodwasp adults and dissected female adults to elucidate the cornerstone ecology of this family and compared these findings with those of siricid woodwasps. The findings provide new host records for these species and indicate that their host ranges span multiple families. Notably, all Xiphydria species had female-biased sex ratios. All adult females had gourd-shaped eggs, similar to those found in gall wasps (Cynipidae), which contrast with the oval-shaped eggs of Siricidae. Slit-like mycangia were located at the base of the ovipositor, with pairs of fungal masses composed of hyphal fragments or spores directly positioned below the seventh sternum, differing structurally from the pouch-like mycangia in Siricidae. Mucus reservoirs and secretory glands were found in the terminal abdominal segments, similar to Siricidae. Mucus in X. annulitibia and X. ogasawarai was colorless and transparent, as reported in Siricidae, whereas X. eborata exhibited deep wine-red mucus, which is the world’s first discovery in all dissected species of Siricidae and Xiphydriidae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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13 pages, 2119 KiB  
Article
Diversity Analysis of Macrofungi and Lichenised Fungi in Pyrenean Oak (Quercus pyrenaica Willd.) and Chestnut (Castanea sativa L.) Forests: Implications for the Conservation of Forest Habitats in Castilla y León (Central-Northwest Spain)
by David Rodríguez-de la Cruz, Sonia Perfecto-Arribas and Luis Delgado-Sánchez
Forests 2025, 16(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/f16010009 - 24 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 943
Abstract
Fungi can be used as bioindicators to assess the biodiversity and conservation status of different habitats because of their high adaptability and sensitivity to changes in water, air, and soil quality. In this study, records of macrofungi and lichenised fungi were extracted from [...] Read more.
Fungi can be used as bioindicators to assess the biodiversity and conservation status of different habitats because of their high adaptability and sensitivity to changes in water, air, and soil quality. In this study, records of macrofungi and lichenised fungi were extracted from GBIF, surveyed using GIS software, and used to compare the fungal diversity of the Pyrenean oak and chestnut groves of Castilla y León, analysing the possible implications of their presence for the conservation of these forest habitats. In Quercus pyrenaica forests, a greater number of lichen and macrofungi species and records were recorded than in Castanea sativa forests, although the greater area occupied by the former could have influenced this diversity. The higher presence of ectomycorrhizal macrofungal species in chestnut groves, as well as the higher sensitivity to pollution of lichens in Pyrenean oak-dominated environments, showed the relevance of the analysis of these data for a better understanding of the conservation status of forest habitats. However, in order to obtain more accurate results, it would be necessary to carry out specific studies on a smaller scale. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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15 pages, 9623 KiB  
Article
Mycorrhizal Diversity on Roots of Silver Birch and Hybrid Aspen in Clonal Plantations in Northern Europe, Latvia
by Roberts Matisons, Zigmunds Orlovskis, Kārlis Trevors Blūms, Dainis Ruņģis, Margarita Baranova, Baiba Krivmane, Krišs Bitenieks, Maryna Ramanenka, Dārta Kļaviņa and Mārtiņš Zeps
Forests 2024, 15(12), 2123; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15122123 - 1 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1001
Abstract
Mycorrhizal fungi contribute to crop growth, yields, and stress tolerance. In forests, common mycorrhizal networks are suggested to function as carbon storage and to transfer substances and signals between trees, thus likely contributing to their resilience. Such properties are crucial under increasing environmental [...] Read more.
Mycorrhizal fungi contribute to crop growth, yields, and stress tolerance. In forests, common mycorrhizal networks are suggested to function as carbon storage and to transfer substances and signals between trees, thus likely contributing to their resilience. Such properties are crucial under increasing environmental stresses, particularly for clonal forestry. However, mycorrhizal communities in relation to tree field performances have been scarcely studied. In this study, mycorrhizal communities on the roots of clones of silver birch and hybrid aspen growing in distinct trials in deep automorphous mineral soils (podzolic and fluvic) under hemiboreal conditions were assessed using internal transcribed spacer sequencing, bioinformatics, and community analysis. The mycorrhizal communities were moderately rich/diverse and were mostly formed by generalist taxa (prevailingly ectomycorrhizal) common for the region. The differences in communities among the tree clones were estimated for silver birch, while for hybrid aspen, the productivity of clones was inversely related to the richness and diversity of the communities, suggesting a top-down effect of the host. Accordingly, some mycorrhizal taxa (e.g., Hyaloscypha sp.) showed clone-specific abundances indicating a preference for a specific host. These findings prompt further functional studies and highlight the need to consider genetic differences of forest regenerative material for maximizing mycorrhizal diversity, as well as for more effective inoculation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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7 pages, 6160 KiB  
Article
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus in Pinus sylvestris—The First Report in Europe
by Luís Fonseca, Hugo Silva, Joana M. S. Cardoso, Ivânia Esteves, Carla Maleita, Sónia Lopes and Isabel Abrantes
Forests 2024, 15(9), 1556; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15091556 - 4 Sep 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1615
Abstract
The pinewood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is the causal agent of pine wilt disease and is considered an A2 quarantine organism by the European Plant Protection Organisation. In Europe, this nematode has been reported in Pinus pinaster, P. radiata, and [...] Read more.
The pinewood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is the causal agent of pine wilt disease and is considered an A2 quarantine organism by the European Plant Protection Organisation. In Europe, this nematode has been reported in Pinus pinaster, P. radiata, and P. nigra. In May 2024, severe wilting symptoms were observed in P. sylvestris trees at Serra da Lousã (Coimbra, the central area of continental Portugal). Wood samples were collected from six wilted trees, and the presence of PWN was investigated. From these, B. xylophilus specimens were detected in five out of the six trees. Species identification was performed based on species-specific morphological diagnostic characters, and this was confirmed by real-time PCR using species-specific primers targeting the B. xylophilus satellite DNA region. This study presents the first detection of B. xylophilus in P. sylvestris in Portugal and in Europe. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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15 pages, 9132 KiB  
Article
Hidden Potential of the Subdominant Ant Formica lemani Bondroit (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): The Formation of Large Nest Complexes and Restructuring Behavioural Stereotypes
by Tatiana Novgorodova and Dmitry Taranenko
Forests 2024, 15(8), 1322; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081322 - 30 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1091
Abstract
The potential of subdominant ants of the Formica fusca group and their role in forests are still underestimated. Since ant behaviour is dependent on colony size, studying the functional organisation of nest complexes (NC) is most promising for a more accurate assessment of [...] Read more.
The potential of subdominant ants of the Formica fusca group and their role in forests are still underestimated. Since ant behaviour is dependent on colony size, studying the functional organisation of nest complexes (NC) is most promising for a more accurate assessment of species capabilities. The study focused on the main ecological and ethological issues of the life activity of Formica lemani Bondroit within large NC (>150 nests) and beyond. After preliminary mapping of the F. lemani NC (main nests, trails, foraging trees), off-nest activity, aggressiveness, and trophobiotic relationships with aphids in and outside the NC territory were studied. Within the NC, the dynamic density, the intensity of movement on trails, and aggressiveness of F. lemani were significantly higher than beyond; the range of symbiont aphids was twice as small, with aphids on birches playing a key role in carbohydrate nutrition of F. lemani. The latter ensures accelerated restoration of trophobiotic interactions in spring and stability of the food supply until autumn. Combined with the lack of pressure from F. rufa group ants, this allowed F. lemani to maintain high population densities, and significantly increased its competitiveness, and role in plant protection against phytophages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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13 pages, 5787 KiB  
Article
Effective Reduction in Natural Enemy Catches in Pheromone Traps Intended for Monitoring Orthotomicus erosus (Coleoptera, Curculionidae)
by Milan Pernek, Tomislav Milas, Marta Kovač, Nikola Lacković, Milan Koren and Boris Hrašovec
Forests 2024, 15(8), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15081298 - 25 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1187
Abstract
Infestations have persisted following a sudden and intense outbreak of the bark beetle Orthotomicus erosus along the Croatian coast, necessitating a continuous battle against this pest. A recommended protective action is the utilization of pheromone traps for population surveillance. Previous monitoring efforts have [...] Read more.
Infestations have persisted following a sudden and intense outbreak of the bark beetle Orthotomicus erosus along the Croatian coast, necessitating a continuous battle against this pest. A recommended protective action is the utilization of pheromone traps for population surveillance. Previous monitoring efforts have recorded an exceptionally high capture rate of natural enemies using pheromone traps; these traps inadvertently prevented natural enemies from fulfilling their essential role in controlling bark beetle populations. To address and significantly diminish instances of this unintended capture, our study designed a modification to the Theysohn-type pheromone trap by integrating a metal mesh within the trapping container. An experimental setup was established in Marjan Forest Park, situated on a peninsula bordered by the sea on three sides and partly by the city of Split. For monitoring purposes, unmodified standard pheromone traps were deployed at the onset of a significant O. erosus outbreak in Croatia in 2018. Catch data from 2020 to 2022 show a marked decrease in the bark beetle population, indicating a shift toward a latent phase. In 2022, modified traps were integrated into the existing monitoring setup, consisting of 10 pairs, to evaluate whether modifications to the traps could significantly reduce the capture of the bark beetle’s natural enemies, specifically Temnoscheila caerulea, Thanasimus formicarius, and Aulonium ruficorne. The objective is to offer recommendations for forestry practices on employing pheromone traps with minimal disturbance to the ecological equilibrium. Our findings indicate that the modifications to the traps markedly decreased the capture of natural predators, particularly T. caerulea, which was the predominant predatory insect found in the traps. Simultaneously, captures of the target species, all bark beetles in the trap, were marginally reduced. This decrease in the capture rates of the target bark beetle species, O. erosus, is not considered problematic when pheromone traps are utilized primarily for monitoring purposes. The modifications to the traps significantly reduced the capture of common bark beetle predators, thereby facilitating a more balanced strategy in forest protection efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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15 pages, 2581 KiB  
Article
From Lab to Nursery: Novel Approaches of Seed Disinfection for Managing Pine Pitch Canker Propagation
by Luís Fernandes, Diana S. Paiva, Ana C. Silva, Cláudia Fernandes, Ana Rita Fernandes, Dina Ribeiro, Luís Martins, Helena Bragança and António Portugal
Forests 2024, 15(7), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15071154 - 3 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1674
Abstract
Fusarium circinatum, the causative agent of pine pitch canker disease, is a pathogenic fungus that poses a significant threat to pine forests globally. It infects various Pinus species, causing resinous cankers, needle discoloration, and tree death. The disease severely impacts forest ecosystems, [...] Read more.
Fusarium circinatum, the causative agent of pine pitch canker disease, is a pathogenic fungus that poses a significant threat to pine forests globally. It infects various Pinus species, causing resinous cankers, needle discoloration, and tree death. The disease severely impacts forest ecosystems, necessitating cost-effective and environmentally friendly management strategies. Contaminated pine seeds and seedlings are the main pathways for introducing this fungus to disease-free areas. To mitigate this disease and prevent its spread, it is crucial to implement new processes in forest plant production systems that align with the existing conditions of forest nurseries, ensuring effective and sustainable management. With this in mind, a national collaborative study involving 14 Portuguese partners was initiated to develop new prevention and mitigation strategies. In this work, four different treatments—MennoFlorades, Captan, ethanol, and hot water—were tested for their ability to eliminate F. circinatum from contaminated Pinus seeds in vitro. The most effective treatments were selected for further in vitro assays and real-context nursery germination trials to assess their impacts on seed germination, plant production, and certification. MennoFlorades, Captan, and hot water were tested in the nursery, with hot water showing the most promising results due to its negligible impact on seedlings, eco-friendly nature, ease of implementation, and cost-effectiveness. These findings offer promising prospects for preventing pine pitch canker outbreaks in nurseries and, consequently, in forests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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12 pages, 2951 KiB  
Article
Population Dynamics of Ips sexdentatus (Börner) in the Czech Republic
by Daniela Hlávková, Markéta Davídková, Jana Koudelková and Petr Doležal
Forests 2024, 15(6), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15060961 - 31 May 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1061
Abstract
Recently, an outbreak of Ips sexdentatus (Börner, 1776) has caused considerable damage in the pine forests of the Czech Republic. As historical data on the biology of this pest are scarce due to its rare occurrence in recent decades, our work focused on [...] Read more.
Recently, an outbreak of Ips sexdentatus (Börner, 1776) has caused considerable damage in the pine forests of the Czech Republic. As historical data on the biology of this pest are scarce due to its rare occurrence in recent decades, our work focused on monitoring flight activity and voltinism and investigating methods for monitoring its activity during the growing season. Observations were conducted from March to September 2021 and 2022 at three sites using 12 Theysohn traps with four types of pheromone lures (ACUMIPROTECT, ACUWIT, SEXOWIT and Pheagr IAC) together with data loggers to record weather conditions. The first beetles occurred in early May (daily mean temperatures above 13 °C). After the first egg laying stage, females re-emerged to establish a sister brood. The maximum flight activity appeared between late June and mid-July (daily mean temperatures about 20 °C), and the offspring occurred at the turn of June/July and in the first half of August. Since then, flight activity had a downward trend and quietened in September. According to the data, monitoring of I. sexdentatus should be conducted between May and September using the ACUMIPROTECT pheromone bait exhibiting the highest capturing efficacy. In future, however, the behavior of I. sexdentatus might alter due to climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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17 pages, 4521 KiB  
Article
Non-Native Plants Influence Forest Vegetative Structure and the Activity of Eastern Temperate Insectivorous Bats
by Morgan Mark, Evan Drake, Kathleen Kerwin and Brooke Maslo
Forests 2024, 15(4), 711; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15040711 - 17 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2022
Abstract
Temperate insectivorous bats value high prey abundance and appropriate vegetative structure when selecting foraging habitats. Forests, particularly in the eastern United States, provide prime foraging habitats for bats but can be heavily impacted by non-native plants, which may alter arthropod diversity and abundance, [...] Read more.
Temperate insectivorous bats value high prey abundance and appropriate vegetative structure when selecting foraging habitats. Forests, particularly in the eastern United States, provide prime foraging habitats for bats but can be heavily impacted by non-native plants, which may alter arthropod diversity and abundance, as well as vegetative structure. To investigate the associations between non-native plants and insect abundance, vegetative structure, and, consequently, bat activity, we performed vegetation surveys, insect trapping, and acoustic monitoring at 23 forested plots in northern New Jersey, USA. We predicted that non-native vegetation would either positively influence bat activity by increasing structural openness (thus, facilitating flight) or negatively influence bat activity by lowering the abundance of putative prey. We also hypothesized that vegetative characteristics, and therefore non-native vegetation, impact bats differently depending on their foraging habitat preferences. The percent of non-native cover of the ground and midstory vegetative layers of our study plots ranged from 0 to 92.92% (x¯ = 46.94 ± 5.77 SE) and was significantly correlated with structural vegetative characteristics, such as midstory clutter (β = 0.01 ± 0.006 SE), but not putative prey abundance (β = −0.81 ± 2.57 SE). Generalized linear models with only vegetative characteristics best predicted overall bat activity and foraging, which were greatest in areas with a high percent non-native vegetation and low midstory clutter. Although percent non-native vegetation and midstory clutter were also significant effects for bats that prefer to forage in open areas, neither vegetative characteristics nor prey abundance were significant effects for clutter-loving bats. Such findings suggest that vegetative structure is more important than prey availability for predicting overall insectivorous bat activity, but other factors, such as foraging strategy and life history traits, can impact how bat guilds respond to non-native vegetation. Therefore, more research is required to reveal additional mechanisms by which non-native plants impact bats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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13 pages, 3412 KiB  
Article
Deadwood-Dwelling Beetles (Coleoptera: Eucnemidae) in a Beech Reserve: A Case Study from the Czech Republic
by Václav Zumr, Oto Nakládal and Jiří Remeš
Forests 2024, 15(3), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/f15030469 - 2 Mar 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1312
Abstract
The saproxylic beetles (deadwood-dependent) belong to frequently studied groups of forest insects. Eucnemidae is a rare and poorly studied saproxylic family with a hidden life strictly related to deadwood. We studied the family Eucnemidae in a beech reserve, using 59 window traps placed [...] Read more.
The saproxylic beetles (deadwood-dependent) belong to frequently studied groups of forest insects. Eucnemidae is a rare and poorly studied saproxylic family with a hidden life strictly related to deadwood. We studied the family Eucnemidae in a beech reserve, using 59 window traps placed on standing deadwood (snags) and lying logs. A total of 348 specimens in eight species were recorded in two seasons. The identified species included one critically endangered species (CR): Hylis cariniceps; five endangered species (EN): H. olexai, H. foveicollis, Isorhipis melasoides, Eucnemis capucina, and Microrhagus lepidus; one new species found in Bohemia (a region of the Czech Republic): Clypeorhagus clypeatus; and one common species: Melasis buprestoides. Most species preferred lying logs, but E. capucina and M. buprestoides preferred snags. Species richness (q = 0) was higher on lying logs than on snags, and similarly, Shannon diversity (q = 1) was significantly higher on lying logs compared to snags. The species C. clypeorghagus, H. foveicollis, H. cariniceps, and M. lepides preferred moist lying logs, while M. buprestoides and E. capucina preferred drier snags with cavities. The results suggest that in beech forests, lying logs serve as a fundamental habitat for the existence of Eucnemids. This could be due to the more stable microclimatic conditions inside the lying deadwood. From this perspective, our study may help better understand the biology of hidden and understudied rare saproxylic Eucnemids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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13 pages, 2466 KiB  
Article
Species Composition and Seasonal Abundance of Predatory Mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) Inhabiting Aesculus hippocastanum (Sapindaceae)
by Michal Kopačka and Rostislav Zemek
Forests 2023, 14(5), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14050942 - 3 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2344
Abstract
Species of the family Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) inhabit a wide range of herbs, shrubs, and trees. Horse chestnut, Aesculus hippocastanum, is an important ornamental tree in Europe and, in addition to its importance for pollinators, it can serve as a host plant [...] Read more.
Species of the family Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) inhabit a wide range of herbs, shrubs, and trees. Horse chestnut, Aesculus hippocastanum, is an important ornamental tree in Europe and, in addition to its importance for pollinators, it can serve as a host plant of these predatory mites. Little is, however, known about the factors affecting spatiotemporal variability in the density of phytoseiids on A. hippocastanum in an urban environment. We therefore assessed the species composition and the spatial and seasonal variability in the abundance of Phytoseiidae species in the city of České Budějovice, South Bohemia, Czech Republic. Compound-leaf samples were randomly collected from horse chestnut tree branches at eight sites, five times during the vegetation season in 2013. The mites were collected by washing technique and mounted on slides for identification. In total, 13,903 specimens of phytoseiid mites were found, and eight species were identified: Amblyseius andersoni, Euseius finlandicus, Kampimodromus aberrans, Neoseiulella tiliarum, Phytoseius macropilis, Paraseiulus talbii, Paraseiulus triporus, and Typhlodromus (Typhlodromus) pyri. The predominant species was E. finlandicus (96.25%). The mean number of mites per compound leaf was 2.53, 10.40, 23.54, 11.59, and 9.27 on the sampling dates in each month between May and September, respectively. The results further revealed that the mite abundance varied significantly among sampling sites and that it was negatively related to percentage of greenery area, intensity of greenery care, distance to water body, and density and age of horse chestnut trees, while it was positively related to air pollution index. The importance of leaf micromorphology for the attractiveness of A. hippocastanum to Phytoseiidae is discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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10 pages, 3247 KiB  
Article
Distribution and Prolonged Diapause of the Rowan Seed Predators Argyresthia conjugella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) and Megastigmus brevicaudis (Hymenoptera: Torymidae) and their Parasitoids in Norway
by Nina Trandem, Karin Westrum, Trond Hofsvang and Sverre Kobro
Forests 2023, 14(4), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/f14040847 - 20 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1836
Abstract
The seed predator Argyresthia conjugella Zeller has rowan as its preferred host plant. In years of poor fruiting in rowan, it oviposits on apples. To improve the knowledge of this apple pest, rowanberries were collected from localities all over Norway from 1971 to [...] Read more.
The seed predator Argyresthia conjugella Zeller has rowan as its preferred host plant. In years of poor fruiting in rowan, it oviposits on apples. To improve the knowledge of this apple pest, rowanberries were collected from localities all over Norway from 1971 to 1985, and seed predators and their parasitoids were allowed to emerge for up to five years. Two species of seed predators, A. conjugella and Megastimus brevicaudis Ratzeburg, and seven species of parasitic Hymenoptera were common. The distribution of these species is shown on EIS (European Invertebrate Survey) maps of Norway. The biology of the parasitoids is summarized based on the published literature and their behavior during emergence. The tendency for delayed emergence, which is an indication of prolonged diapause, was more pronounced in M. brevicaudis than in A. conjugella, the former appearing in all five years. Five of the parasitoids also delayed their emergence, and three of them to a high degree, up to five years. Prolonged diapause must be taken into account in studies of rowanberry insect guilds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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10 pages, 2041 KiB  
Article
Mites Associated with the European Spruce Bark Beetle Ips typographus (Linnaeus, 1758) in Europe, with New Evidence for the Fauna of Serbia
by Marija Milosavljević, Mara Tabaković-Tošić, Milan Pernek, Ljubinko Rakonjac, Aleksandar Lučić, Saša Eremija and Michal Rindos
Forests 2022, 13(10), 1586; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13101586 - 28 Sep 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2284
Abstract
Various biotic and abiotic factors are the cause of the decline of coniferous forests throughout Europe. Trees weakened by unfavorable weather conditions create an ideal environment for a possible outbreak of bark beetles. The damage caused by bark beetles costs billions of dollars [...] Read more.
Various biotic and abiotic factors are the cause of the decline of coniferous forests throughout Europe. Trees weakened by unfavorable weather conditions create an ideal environment for a possible outbreak of bark beetles. The damage caused by bark beetles costs billions of dollars worldwide every year. Extreme climate events are responsible for the enormous forest losses in Tara National Park in the last ten years, leading to a massive bark beetle infestation. The understanding of the diversity and role of mites as biological control agents is still insufficient. In this study, we summarize the current knowledge on the diversity of mites associated with Ips typographus L. in Europe and provide information on the diversity of these mites in Serbia. Paraleius leontonychus, Uroobovella ipidis, Dendrolaelaps quadrisetus, Histiostoma piceae, and Trichouropoda polytricha were detected for the first time in Serbia. Moreover, the occurrence of Paraleius leontonychus represents the southernmost occurrence of this species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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23 pages, 3866 KiB  
Article
Culturable Endophytic Fungi in Fraxinus excelsior and Their Interactions with Hymenoscyphus fraxineus
by Marek Barta, Katarína Pastirčáková, Radovan Ostrovský, Marek Kobza and Miriam Kádasi Horáková
Forests 2022, 13(7), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13071098 - 13 Jul 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3200
Abstract
The species diversity of culturable endophytic fungi was studied in the leaves and twigs of symptomatic and asymptomatic Fraxinus excelsior trees. Endophytic mycobiota was dominated by Ascomycota species, with Pleosporales (44.17%) and Diaporthales (23.79%) endophytes being the most frequently observed in the tree [...] Read more.
The species diversity of culturable endophytic fungi was studied in the leaves and twigs of symptomatic and asymptomatic Fraxinus excelsior trees. Endophytic mycobiota was dominated by Ascomycota species, with Pleosporales (44.17%) and Diaporthales (23.79%) endophytes being the most frequently observed in the tree samples. The number of endophytic isolates and species richness varied depending on the sampling date (May and October) and tissue location. Of the 54 species identified based on ITS sequences, 14 were classified as dominant. The most frequently isolated species were Diaporthe eres, followed by Alternaria alternata, Dothiorella gregaria, and Fraxinicola fraxini. The inhibitory effect of 41 species (75 isolates) of endophytes on the radial growth of a Hymenoscyphus fraxineus isolate was studied under in vitro conditions (dual cultures). The radial growth of H. fraxineus was the most inhibited by four endophytic fungi from twigs (Fusarium lateritium, Didymella aliena, Didymella macrostoma, and Dothiorella gregaria). The inhibitory effect of the four isolates was also studied under in planta conditions. The isolates artificially inoculated into the trunks of ash trees reduced the length of necroses formed by H. fraxineus co-inoculated in the same trunks. This effect depended on the isolate, and the inhibition was most prominent only on trunks inoculated with F. lateritium and D. aliena. Although the total length of necrotic lesions formed by the H. fraxineus infection was shorter in the ash trunks co-inoculated with the endophytes, the difference was not significant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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13 pages, 2917 KiB  
Article
Changes in the Parasitism Rate and Parasitoid Community Structure of the Horse Chestnut Leafminer, Cameraria ohridella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), in the Czech Republic
by Lubomír Volter, Eva Prenerová, František Weyda and Rostislav Zemek
Forests 2022, 13(6), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/f13060885 - 7 Jun 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2547
Abstract
The horse chestnut leafminer, Cameraria ohridella, Deschka and Dimić, is a moth that has invaded most of Europe since it was first recorded in Macedonia near Lake Ohrid in 1985. It attacks horse chestnut trees and causes aesthetic and vitality problems. The [...] Read more.
The horse chestnut leafminer, Cameraria ohridella, Deschka and Dimić, is a moth that has invaded most of Europe since it was first recorded in Macedonia near Lake Ohrid in 1985. It attacks horse chestnut trees and causes aesthetic and vitality problems. The parasitism rate, other mortality rates, and parasitoid structure were studied during a five-year survey at six sites in the Czech Republic. The results showed that the total parasitism rates varied from 1.9% to 20.5%, with an average of 7.2%, similar to other those published studies. The parasitism rate was significantly related to year, the developmental stage of C. ohridella, latitude, and greenery maintenance but not to C. ohridella population density, altitude, or area size. In contrast, the total other mortality rates varied from 13.7% to 59.5%, with an average of 31%, but overall temporal changes in the values indicated a declining trend. The parasitoid complex was predominantly polyphagous parasitoids of the family Eulophidae, similar to that found previously in south-eastern Europe. The results further revealed that the most abundant parasitoid species, Minotetrastichus frontalis (Nees), was gradually replaced by Pediobius saulius (Walker). The increasing abundance of P. saulius is thus an interesting adaptation of an autochthonous parasitoid to a new host. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biodiversity and Ecology of Organisms Associated with Woody Plants)
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