New data on the distribution and abundance of Dendrolimus sibiricus (Tshetverikov, 1908) (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) in the Komi Republic.
Abstract The Siberian silkworm (Dendrolimus sibiricus Tschetv.) is a defoliator pest that poses a significant threat to coniferous forest stands. Over the past decades, several large outbreaks of this species have occurred in Siberia (Russia), which has led to changes in forest ecosystems and an increase of expenses involved in reforestation. Adults capture new territories in the process of migration, therefore, a set of measures is needed to register the number and prevent further dispersal of the moth. One of methods of trapping is glue traps with synthetic pheromone. 16 district forestries located in the middle taiga subzone, with a total area of 151 850 hectares, were surveyed as a part of the phytosanitary monitoring of the Siberian silkworm in the Komi Republic (Russia). Analysis of 773 pheromone traps showed 414 males of the target species that were identified by their genitals. The highest indicators of catchability were found in three district forestries. Taking into account the results obtained, it was proposed to continue the monitoring using the pheromone traps, to survey more northern forest districts and to carry out subsequent searches for preimaginal stages of the silkworm in the forest districts of Priluzsky district. The study will be useful for predicting the further spread of the silkworm and for developing optimal containment and control of the pest.