Spring tree pollarding as a treatment to reduce the damage of the chestnut wasp and comments on other control methods used

Authors

Keywords:

Castanea, Catalonia, Dryocosmus kuriphilus, control methods, pest, silvicultural treatments, spring tree pollarding

Abstract

Dryocosmus kuriphilus (Hym., Cynipidae) is an invasive species that was introduced to Europe via Italy in 2002. Ten years after, in 2012, it was detected in Catalonia and spread rapidly throughout the Iberian Peninsula where Castanea sativa is present. It produces galls on chestnut tree causing a decrease in the vigour and economic loss. Over the years, various control methods have been used trying to eradicate this pest. These methods are updated here, indicating their advantages and disadvantages. Spring tree pollarding is proposed, among the economically feasible cultural treatments, as a new method to reduce damages caused by this chestnut pest. Effectiveness and ideal time for carrying it out are evaluated, taking into account that chestnut trees are also attacked by canker.

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Section

Gea, Flora et Fauna