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Scientia Silvae Sinicae ›› 2006, Vol. 42 ›› Issue (8): 109-115.doi: 10.11707/j.1001-7488.20060818

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The Relation of Species Diversity to Pest Control in Forest Plantations

Luo Changwei,Li Kun   

  1. Research Institute of Resource Insect, Chinese Academy of Forestry Kunming 650224
  • Received:2004-09-14 Revised:1900-01-01 Online:2006-08-25 Published:2006-08-25

Abstract:

The latest results, from both domestic and foreign research, on the relation of pest abundance and control in forest plantations are analyzed and reviewed. Factors are plant diversity, insect diversity, and their intrinsic function mechanisms. Plant diversity helps control pests when target tree species are dispersed among other species and by increasing overall insect diversity, including natural enemies and competitors of the pests. Compared to tree plantations, natural forest has both higher tree species and insect species diversity and this provides some pest control. Drawing lessons from natural forest, we can adjust the compositions of plantations and secondary forests by adopting eco-silviculture, closing hillsides to allow natural afforestation, and applying biotechnology. All should enhance species diversity and therefore strengthen pest resistance.

Key words: forest plantations, natural forest, species diversity, pest control