Developmental features of small spruce bud scale (Physokermes hemicryphus) (Hemiptera, Coccidae) on spruce trees in arboretums and urban plantings

V. Melenti; I. Lezhenina; S. Stankevych; I. Zabrodina; L. Cherednik

doi:10.15421/0225171

V. Melenti State Biotechnological University
I. Lezhenina State Biotechnological University
S. Stankevych State Biotechnological University
I. Zabrodina State Biotechnological University
L. Cherednik National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine

Keywords: Physokermes hemicryphus, Picea abies, Picea pungens, phenology, small spruce bud scale, harmfulness.

Abstract

Small spruce bud scale ( Physokermes hemicryphus Dalman, 1826) is one of the most widespread and harmful phytophagous insects in spruce stands. A feature of its development is the clear synchronization of phenological stages with the seasonal growth dynamics of Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) H. Karst, 1881) and blue spruce ( Picea pungens Engelmann , 1875), which ensures a high level of pest adaptability and complicates control measures. Studies have shown that the pest overwinters as the first-instar larvae, which resume feeding in early spring, immediately after the start of host tree vegetation. The further development of the pest coincides with spruce growth: the formation of second-instar larvae and young females is observed precisely during the active elongation of shoots and the growth of needles. This leads to competition for assimilates and significant depletion of trees, which is manifested in a decrease in branch growth, loss of decorative properties and general weakening of the stands. An important factor is weather conditions. Increased spring temperatures accelerate development and generation change, while cool periods prolong individual stages, but increase the duration of larval feeding, increasing harmfulness. Outbreaks of P. hemicryphus not only limit tree growth but also create conditions for its secondary infection by fungal pathogens, in particular sooty molds that develop on honeydew. Thus, P. hemicryphus is a pest and worsens the health of spruce forests. Phenological observations are of key importance for timely forecasting of the abundance of P. hemicryphus . Recognizing the periods of active feeding of larvae and generation formation allows one to optimiz e the forest protection system, in particular, the use of biological agents and the rational use of insecticides. The obtained results confirm the need for comprehensive monitoring of the pest phenology, considering regional climatic features, which is the basis for the develo p ment of effective protection methods.

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