The Large Pine Weevil, Hylobius abietis, is one of the most important insect pests in young forests and the only pest species in Germany that is allowed to be routinely controlled using insecticides. In general, clearcuttings are avoided in German forests. However, drought and storm events, and subsequently bark beetle outbreaks have caused more than 600.000 ha of clear-cut areas since 2017, which is about five percent of forested area in Germany. Since these areas have to be reforested, the protection of young trees against insect pests, such as H. abietis, is a very important aspect of forest management.
Trapping Hylobius weevils as an alternative to using insecticides has had a long tradition in science and practice. Attempts to use lures already started about 100 years ago and over time different traps with or without various native baits have been used.
This presentation will illustrate the frame conditions and success of traditional practices as well as the results of recent studies and modern traps and trap treatments without the use of insecticides and a high selectivity with regard to non-target organisms.