Sigma Xi Research Showcase 2017 Video

Abstract

Insect Populations associated with Leptographium terebrantis, a Fungus that Contributes to Southern Pine Decline

    Southern pine decline is a disease complex that attacks the roots of stressed pine trees in the southeastern United States. Healthy trees become predisposed to bark-feeding beetles and weevils, and these insects introduce fungi into the roots as they feed, including Leptographium, Grosmannia, and Ophiostoma species. These fungi occlude xylem, blocking water uptake and staining the wood blue. In this study, we investigate the effects on insect populations from one of these species that has been associated with decline: Leptographium terebrantis. A loblolly pine stand in Eufaula, Alabama will be monitored with insect traps collected bimonthly for both insect diversity and for bark-feeding beetles and weevils of concern. For a year, the stand will be free of the fungus, to determine the insect populations already present, and the three years after will continue to monitor after the fungus has been introduced. Additionally, insects will be captured and fungal spores that are associated with pine decline on their bodies will be attempted to be identified to genus-species based on wavelengths from a method called hyperspectral interferometry to determine a more efficient method of prediction.