Question:

Which of the following is a Sal heartwood borer?

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A traditional and highly effective biological control method for Hoplocerambyx spinicornis is the 'Trap-Tree Operation', where freshly felled Sal trees are cut into logs to attract and trap the adult beetles during their flight season.
  • Hoplocerambyx spinicornis
  • Plecoptera reflexa
  • Eutectona machaeralis
  • Ectropis deodarae
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Forest entomology deals with insect pests that damage tree species.
Identifying dominant pests and their host plants is key to implementing effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in forestry.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let us examine the host plants and nature of damage for each insect listed:
1. Hoplocerambyx spinicornis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), commonly known as the Sal heartwood borer, is the most destructive pest of Sal (Shorea robusta) forests in India.
The female beetle lays eggs in the bark of weak or freshly felled Sal trees.
The emerging larvae bore deep into the sapwood and heartwood, creating extensive tunnels that disrupt the tree's vascular system and ruin the timber quality.
Severe infestations can lead to widespread tree mortality, causing significant ecological and economic losses.
2. Plecoptera reflexa is the Shisham defoliator, a serious pest of Dalbergia sissoo.
3. Eutectona machaeralis is the Teak skeletonizer, which feeds exclusively on the leaves of Tectona grandis.
4. Ectropis deodarae is the Deodar defoliator, which feeds on the needles of Cedrus deodara.

Step 3: Final Answer:

The Sal heartwood borer is Hoplocerambyx spinicornis, corresponding to option (A).
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