black turpentine beetle Dendroctonusterebrans (Olivier, 1795)
Origin
Dendroctonus terebrans is native to the Americas.
Life Cycle
The BTB life cycle lasts for 10 to 16 weeks, depending on temperature. Females begin gallery construction and are joined by the males that help excavate egg galleries. Egg galleries normally extend from the point of entry downward and parallel to the grain of the wood. Females deposit eggs in groups along one side of the gallery. After the eggs hatch, the larvae feed side by-side in large groups during their development, resulting in a "feeding patch". Fully-grown larvae are about 0.5 in. (12 mm) long. Three or more generations occur each year in Georgia.
Distribution
Dendroctonus terebrans, the black turpentine beetle is found from New Hampshire south to Florida and from West Virginia to east Texas. Attacks have been observed on all pines native to the South. Dendroctonus terebrans is most serious in pine naval stores, pines stressed for lightwood production, and damaged pines in urban areas.
Control Efforts
Natural enemies and good tree vigor generally keep black turpentine beetle populations at low levels. Newly attacked trees can often be saved by spraying the base to the highest pitch tube on the trunk with an approved insecticide. Preventive sprays are also effective for high value trees. The prompt removal of infested trees also helps to control outbreaks. Forest management practices which promote tree vigor and minimize root and trunk damage help prevent infestations.