NURSERY PEST PROBLEMS ON Acacia mangium, Cinamomum cassia and Illicium verum IN BAC KAN PROVINCE, VIETNAM

Abstract

Acacia mangium, Cinamomum cassia, and Illicium verum are pivotal forestry species in Bac Kan province, where they contribute significantly to economic and environmental welfare. A. mangium's wood is essential for the pulp industry, while C. cassia and I. verum provide essential oils with extensive industrial applications. Despite their economic value, increased plantation areas have exacerbated insect pest outbreaks, affecting tree growth and yield. However, the focus of previous research on insect pests has primarily been on plantations, leaving nursery infestations largely unexplored. This study aims to overcome this gap by investigating insect pest species diversity in nurseries in Bac Kan province. Field observations and standard plot surveys were conducted in Cho Moi district and Bac Kan city, resulting in the collection of 72 survey forms. The survey revealed significant insect pest species compositions in A. mangium, C. cassia, and I. verum nurseries. Notably, Helopeltis theivora was identified as the primary pest infesting young A. mangium trees, while Echinothrips sp. emerged as the main pest species in C. cassia nurseries, and others affected I. verum nurseries. These findings underscore the need for ongoing monitoring and research to develop effective pest management strategies. Such insights are crucial for sustaining the economic and environmental benefits of these forestry species in Bac Kan province.