The aim of this study was to analyse the structure of the beetle-attacked Pinus brutia forest stands in northern Greece, to determine the silvicultural characteristics and growth of the affected trees, to explore any correlation of infestation rates with above parameters, and then to suggest appropriate silvicultural treatments to prevent or mitigate such attacks. The results showed that the affected stands are pure, even-aged with relative high stem density, as a result of non-tending. Growth of the infected trees was satisfactory in the first 5–28 years, then it gradually decreases, and it is reduced after insect infestation. The reduction was found higher in the stands of high infestation rate (30–50% of the total number of trees), which are characterised by high tree density. Selection thinning and gradual conversion to mixed stands are suggested to increase stand resistance and promote tree vigour and forest health.
Oikonomou et al. (Thu,) studied this question.