Ocurrencia de Ips calligraphus (Scolytinae: Curculionidae) en rodales remanentes de bosques de Pinus con composiciones florísticas variables y diferente manejo en la ladera noroeste de la Cordillera Central, República Dominicana

This study investigated the occurrence and population dynamics of Ips calligraphus within remnant Pinus forest stands with varying floristic compositions on the northwestern slope of the Cordillera Central, Dominican Republic. The study aimed to assess the influence of floristic diversity and forest management on the abundance of I. calligraphus in these fragmented ecosystems. Sampling was conducted across multiple forest stands with varying management and floristic compositions. A total of 18 plots of 20 x 20 meters were established, and I. calligraphus abundance was monitored using pheromone-baited traps over a five-week period. Tree dimensions, species richness, and floristic diversity were measured in each plot. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, diversity indices, and multivariate techniques such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering. The results indicated that I. calligraphus populations were more abundant in forest stands with higher floristic diversity, particularly in unmanaged sites. Significant variability in beetle populations was observed between managed and unmanaged forests, with unmanaged sites showing greater beetle pressure. PCA and clustering analyses revealed distinct capture profiles, suggesting that site-specific factors such as microclimate, forest management, and tree species composition influenced I. calligraphus dynamics. The study highlighted the complexity of managing I. calligraphus populations in fragmented pine forests. Floristic diversity, while beneficial for overall ecosystem health, did not appear to mitigate beetle infestations. The findings suggested the need for adaptive, site-specific pest management strategies that considered both ecological and management variables.