Optimization of Kairomonal Compounds That Attract Trypophloeus binodulus in Populus spp. Plantations

Trypophloeus binodulus is a bark beetle present in mature poplar plantations that damages the bark of healthy trees and is currently expanding, posing a risk to these crops and impacting their economic profitability, since there is currently no early detection method or control strategy for this pest. This study was carried out in the province of León in three experimental plots affected by this pest, located in Villasabariego, Villoria de Órbigo, and Turcia to evaluate the effectiveness of different combinations of primary and secondary kairomonal compounds in different trap types. Moreover, the capture results obtained during 20 and 22 weeks in 2023 and 2024 years, respectively, of the field trial made it possible to determine that the most effective lure for monitoring and controlling T. binodulus is Ethanol + Salicylaldehyde, since its synergistic effect enhances its attractiveness. Also, the results confirmed that ESCOLITRAP® traps are the most effective under field conditions. These results identify an effective method for monitoring the pest, which could be a promising candidate for adoption by poplar growers, enabling progress toward sustainable management through semiochemical compounds.