Impact of Leptoglossus occidentalis on Pinus pinea cone to pine nut yield in Chile
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Stone pine nuts are highly appreciated and increasingly in demand. However, pine nut yield expressed as percentage of nut weight over cone weight, has decreased (from 4% to 2% or even less) in the European producer countries, due to the attack of the insect Leptoglossus occidentalis, which produces an increase in the presence of empty (up to 50%) and damaged seeds. The species shows a good adaptation in Chile, with over 2,000 hectares of new plantations. L. occidentalis here was first detected in 2017, with increasing captures in the last years. The objective of this study was to assess fruit traits and pine nut yield before and after the arrival of the insect, and to quantify its damages (types I (endosperm/embryo damage), II (endosperm elimination) and III (empty seeds)). Seven plantations were monitored in 2018 and 2019 and compared to data from previous years (2010/15). Cone size, seed number per cone, seed and pine nut size (length and diameter) and weight were measured at each plantation and year and pine nut yield was determined. Results showed average pine nut yield of 4% without decreases along time. In a hotspot site for the insect, a significant decrease in cone weight, seed weight and pine nuts per cone was quantified. A significant increase in damages type I and II was found in all sites after 2017. Consequently, the need of monitoring the advance of the insect in the country and its effects on stone pine cropping is relevant. Biological or chemical control will be required for adequate orchard management.
Keywords: kernel yield, cone health, stone pine, insect attack
ID: 3483547