Mass outbreaks and factors related to the spatial dynamics of spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus) dieback considering diverse management regimes in the Białowieża forest

An unprecedented spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus) outbreak in the Białowieża Forest, starting in 2012, has drastically reduced Norway spruce (Picea abies) as a dominant species. Research analyzing data from 2015 to 2019 revealed that infested trees increased over sixfold during this period, with significant variation across management regimes. Spruce mortality was notably lower in Białowieża National Park compared to other forest districts. Key factors influencing the outbreak included spruce height, stand age, proportion of spruce, and tree crown coverage excluding spruce. The most severe dieback occurred in stands older than 100 years dominated by spruce, while mixed young forests or pine stands exhibited minimal impact. This study provides critical baseline data to model bark beetle spread and inform future management strategies.

Kamińska, A., Lisiewicz, M., Kraszewski, B., & Stereńczak, K. (2021). Mass outbreaks and factors related to the spatial dynamics of spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus) dieback considering diverse management regimes in the Białowieża forest. Forest Ecology and Management, 498, 119530. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2021.119530