Quick Facts, Southern Pine Beetle Biology and Control

John L. Foltz, Forest Entomologist
University of Florida, Dept of Entomology and Nematology

The southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis, is the most studied of the southern forest insects. Below, in outline form, are some essential facts gleaned from numerous articles and survey reports. Selected references and links to additional web sites are listed at the end of the document.


SPB Key Points Benefits of community-wide suppression programs Life Cycle Behavior Signs of Attack Epidemiological Factors of SPB Outbreaks Three Levels of Infestation Factors Affecting Rate of Spot Growth Factors Affecting Tree Resistance Factors Affecting SPB Attacks/Day Three Sources of Attacking Beetles Suppression Objective SPB Control Options
  1. Cut and remove infested trees (Sanitation Salvage), then process logs to kill beetles
  2. Cut and spray trees with approved insecticide
  3. Cut and leave (Spot Disruption) - does not stop beetle dispersal
  4. Do nothing
SPB Impact Remedial/protective Insecticides Preventing SPB Attacks during Outbreaks Longterm Reduction of SPB Infestations

Selected References


Additional information about the southern pine beetle can be found at:


Prepared by John L. Foltz, 19 Oct 1997. Last modified 4 June 2001.
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