Evaluation of thermoregulation of different pine organs in early spring and estimation of heat reward for the western conifer seed bug (Leptoglossus occidentalis) on male cones

Abstract

The western conifer seed bug (WCSB, Leptoglossus occidentalis) is a pest of many pine species and is invasive worldwide. WCSB directly and indirectly deteriorates pine nut production by sucking seeds from cones. Currently, researchers think that WCSBs search for food by a combination of cues from visible light, infrared radiation, and chemicals such as monoterpenes. Some research revealed that WCSBs prefer larger cones, and it was thought that WCSBs suck seeds from and obtain more heat on larger cones. However, in early spring, we observed that most WCSBs gathered on male cones rather than on female cones and young cones. We hypothesized that male pine cones were warmer than female cones and needles, and WCSBs sucking male cones may receive more heat. To test these hypotheses, we measured spectral reflectance with a hyperspectral sensor and temperature of pine organs with tiny thermocouples, and the data were analyzed by a heat budget model. Our results revealed that male cones were significantly warmer and more reflective than female cones and needles, which may attract WCSBs. These results supported our hypothesis that WCSBs on male cones were warmer than those on other organs. This study will help further understanding of WCSBs and the adaptive value of pine cone colors.

Determining Empty Seed Formation and Germination Rates Induced by Leptoglossus occidentalis (Heidemann) in Coniferous Species in Turkiye Forests

“…Furthermore, higher temperatures lead to an increased release of volatile compounds like monoterpenes. Therefore, male owers, with their high re ectance, high temperature, and high concentration of volatile compounds, may be more appealing to L. occidentalis (Kitajima et al, 2022). Previous research has shown that rst-stage nymphs feed on male owers during the spring season (Schaefer and Panizzi, 2000).…”