Orthotomicus tridentatus Eggers: distribution and biology in cedar forests of Turkey

Authors: MUSTAFA AVCI, OĞUZHAN SARIKAYA

Abstract: Orthotomicus tridentatus Eggers, 1921 (Col.: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) is the most important forest pest of cedar stands in Turkey. Yet, very little is known about its distribution and biology. Therefore, the distribution and biological characteristics of O. tridentatus were studied in the Taurus Mountains in southern Turkey between 2006 and 2008. It was determined to be a species common to all cedar forests. The length of adults was between 2.5 and 3.9 mm and the main galleries were 'S' shaped. O. tridentatus was determined to be a monophagus species for Cedrus libani A. Rich. and as endemic to Turkey. It was observed that the species had 2 generations per year. The first mating season occurred at the end of April and the second during the second half of August. It hibernates as a young adult.

Keywords: Orthotomicus tridentatus, morphology, biology, trap trees, cedar, Turkey

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