Review of the Potential Effects of Shifting Southern Pine Beetle (dendroctonus Frontalis) Population and Outbreak Dynamics

Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann, southern pine beetle, is one of the most damaging insect pests of pine trees ( Pinus spp.) in the southern United States (U.S.), Mexico, and Central America. Populations and outbreaks have been decreasing in the southeastern U.S., but they have been steadily advancing their range into novel areas in the northeastern U.S., such as Massachusetts and Maine. There have been many recent advances in monitoring, genetics, and management of D. frontalis since the last major review and synthesis in 2011. In this manuscript, we review and synthesize recent literature on; 1) alterations in the geographic distribution and range of D. frontalis , and their host trees and associated organisms (i.e., natural enemies and fungal associates); 2) beetle trapping and monitoring protocols; 3) sustainable management and restoration efforts; and 4) economic effects. Additionally, we identify several gaps in knowledge that, if filled, would provide valuable information for trapping this pest and managing the potential outbreaks in the future.