Tip, Shoot, Root, and Regeneration Pests

Abstract Tree branches, shoot tips, and fine roots, are high in nutritive value and generally have comparatively lower amounts of defensive compounds than older tissues. These tree tissues are utilized by many different insect pests around the world. In some cases, these pests can cause loss of tissues, deformation, or even tree death. Many of these pests are native to the region in which they typically damage trees, and their damage is often confined to stressed or dying trees. However, sometimes these and other such pests can be non-native or even invasive, and can impact trees in new areas. Several tip, shoot, and root pests—typically coleopterans, heteropterans, and lepidopterans—can affect pines and hardwoods, both established trees and newly planted ones. In some cases, effective management strategies have been determined, while in others we know very little about potential management. This chapter will highlight several case studies from around the world where insect pests have impacted tree tips, roots, shoots, and/or regeneration. The causal agent will be discussed, as will any management strategies. Ultimately, careful monitoring and reporting can help forest managers be prepared for damage from these pests, and proper forest management will help ensure forests are resilient and resistant to insect pest damage.