Biology and Natural Control of the White-Pine Weevil in Virginia

Abstract

The white-pine weevil, Pissodes strobi (Peck), and its parasites, predators, and associated insects were studied in 13 areas in Virginia by (1) large-scale rearing of organisms from 759 infested white pine leaders in polyethylene bags and (2) dissection of infested white pine leaders. Forty-eight insect species were reared, of which only 15 were considered common. The white-pine weevil emerged in highest numbers, followed by Lonchaca corticis Taylor, Bracon pini (Muesebeck), and Cocloides pissodis (Ashmead). Collections were made from 5 types of white pine stands. Young open plantations appeared to be the most favorable for weevil brood development, whereas naturally seeded stands appeared to be least favorable. Highest numbers of associated species were obtained from older, closed plantations.