Chafer is a somewhat forgotten, but once again a real threat

Abstract

The article analyzes the significance of the Melolontha hippocastani beetle as a dangerous forest pest in Russia. It is shown that for a long time it was the main obstacle to the successful creation of forest plantations in a number of regions of the country, in particular in the Volga region and in the south of Western Siberia. In addition, it is shown that despite this, the definition of what is the center of mass reproduction of the beetle has not been formulated. Previously, various technologies for the protection against beetles were proposed and widely used, which included both the use of chemicals and forestry measures. This led to a significant reduction in the danger from this pest, and since the end of the 20th century, the chamois has ceased to be a significant reason for forestry workers to carry out protection measures. The article shows that currently favorable conditions are again emerging for the beginning of the formation of large foci of this pest. Definitions for such concepts as «center of mass reproduction» and «center of harmfulness» of Melolontha hippocastani are proposed and the absence of modern drugs and technologies for protection against this pest is indicated.