Environmental factors affecting bark beetles and gall wasp associated with dominant deciduous trees.
My research focuses on environmental factors influencing the occurrence of forest economically significant bark beetles, defoliators, and gall wasp associated with dominant deciduous trees. The objectives of my research can be categorized into three main areas, each crucial for understanding the interactions between host trees and pests.
The first goal of my research is to determine the environmental variables affecting the occurrence of current economically significant herbivores of deciduous trees, with a specific focus on bark beetles and defoliators. To achieve this objective, we collect data on climatic conditions and geographic factors in areas where these herbivores are present. We also analyze the structure of the forest stand and identify the presence of specific tree species that are preferred hosts for the identified pests.
The second goal is to describe and evaluate the infection levels of pathogens associated with the bark beetle Taphrorychus bicolor (Herbst, 1793), which is linked to beech forests. This aspect of the research focuses on identifying and characterizing pathogens associated with this specific herbivore species. We analyze the impact of these pathogens on the health of host trees and monitor their spread in the given environment.
The final goal of my research is to assess the influence of herbivore presence on the health and biochemical parameters of host trees. We conduct thorough monitoring of changes in the physiology of host trees, including biochemical reactions to herbivore damage. This helps us understand how host plants respond to stress caused by herbivory and how these interactions affect the overall ecology of the forest environment.
Overall, this research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between forest trees and herbivores, providing valuable insights for sustainable forest management and the protection of forest ecosystems from pests and pathogens.
