Zach Peter
AEI Research Group
Research Group Leader
Ing. Peter Zach, CSc.
Slovak Academy of Sciences
Institute of Forest Ecology
Animal & Ecosystem Interactions Research Group
Ľudovíta Štúra 1774/2
960 01 Zvolen
Phone: +421 45 5241 111, kl. 128
Email: zach@ife.sk
Research areas: a forest entomologist and phythopathologist conducting research in the field of forest entomology, forest protection and biodiversity conservation with emphasis placed on bark beetles (Scolytinae) and other xylophilous beetles, ladybirds (Coccinellidae) and invasive insect species. A keen birdwatcher.
Education:
- PhD. in Forest Pathology and Plant Protection (1993)
Projects:
- VEGA 2/0052/15: Functionally important animals in forest dynamics in new environmental conditions
- VEGA 2/0012/17: Importance of local habitats and microhabitats for spacial distribution of forest and arboricolous arthropods
- APVV-15- 0348: New methods in an integrated forest protection incorporating the use of entomopathogenic fungi
- APVV-14- 0567: Information and warning system for invasive organisms in forests and urban areas
List of my publications:
2020 |
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 | Kulfan, Ján; Zach, Peter; Holec, Juraj; Brown, Peter M J; Sarvašová, Lenka; Skuhrovec, Jiří; Martinková, Zdenka; Honěk, Alois; Váľka, Jozef; Holecová, Milada; Saniga, Miroslav The Invasive Box Tree Moth Five Years after Introduction in Slovakia: Damage Risk to Box Trees in Urban Habitats Journal Article Forests, 11 (9), 2020, ISSN: 1999-4907. @article{Kulfan2020b, title = {The Invasive Box Tree Moth Five Years after Introduction in Slovakia: Damage Risk to Box Trees in Urban Habitats}, author = {Ján Kulfan and Peter Zach and Juraj Holec and Peter M.J. Brown and Lenka Sarvašová and Jiří Skuhrovec and Zdenka Martinková and Alois Honěk and Jozef Váľka and Milada Holecová and Miroslav Saniga}, doi = {10.3390/f11090999}, issn = {1999-4907}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-09-17}, journal = {Forests}, volume = {11}, number = {9}, abstract = {The box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis (Walker, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is an invasive species in Europe and a serious pest of box trees (Buxus spp.). In Slovakia, Central Europe, it was first reported in 2012 within the low elevation region with a warm climate. We hypothesize that the cold mountain region of Slovakia would provide less suitable conditions for the spread of this species, indicated by no or only slight damage to box trees. Five years after C. perspectalis was first recorded in Slovakia, we assessed the probability of occurrence of the moth and the probability of damage to box trees (Buxus sempervirens) by its larvae, using temperature and altitude data as predictors. In June and July 2017, at 156 locations (towns and villages) between the altitudes of 109 and 888 m, we recorded damage and categorized the intensity of damage to box trees by C. perspectalis using a four-point scale. Box trees infested by C. perspectalis were recorded in most locations at altitudes between 110 and 400 m with the mean annual temperature varying between 10.5 and 7.9 °C. High damage to box trees was found in locations up to 340 m a.s.l. characterized by mean annual temperatures above 8.5 °C. Our results suggested high probability (>60%) of any damage to box trees for the area up to approximately 300 m a.s.l. (mean annual temperature above 8.4 °C), and high probability (>60%) of high damage for the area up to approximately 250 m a.s.l. (mean annual temperature above 9 °C). The area where damage to box trees was predicted using the altitude showed great overlap with the area predicted using the mean annual temperature. The area with the probability of any damage was only slightly larger than the area with the probability of high damage.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis (Walker, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is an invasive species in Europe and a serious pest of box trees (Buxus spp.). In Slovakia, Central Europe, it was first reported in 2012 within the low elevation region with a warm climate. We hypothesize that the cold mountain region of Slovakia would provide less suitable conditions for the spread of this species, indicated by no or only slight damage to box trees. Five years after C. perspectalis was first recorded in Slovakia, we assessed the probability of occurrence of the moth and the probability of damage to box trees (Buxus sempervirens) by its larvae, using temperature and altitude data as predictors. In June and July 2017, at 156 locations (towns and villages) between the altitudes of 109 and 888 m, we recorded damage and categorized the intensity of damage to box trees by C. perspectalis using a four-point scale. Box trees infested by C. perspectalis were recorded in most locations at altitudes between 110 and 400 m with the mean annual temperature varying between 10.5 and 7.9 °C. High damage to box trees was found in locations up to 340 m a.s.l. characterized by mean annual temperatures above 8.5 °C. Our results suggested high probability (>60%) of any damage to box trees for the area up to approximately 300 m a.s.l. (mean annual temperature above 8.4 °C), and high probability (>60%) of high damage for the area up to approximately 250 m a.s.l. (mean annual temperature above 9 °C). The area where damage to box trees was predicted using the altitude showed great overlap with the area predicted using the mean annual temperature. The area with the probability of any damage was only slightly larger than the area with the probability of high damage. |
 | Fiala, Tomáš; Holuša, Jaroslav; Procházka, Jiří; Čížek, Lukáš; Dzurenko, Marek; Foit, Jiří; Galko, Juraj; Kašák, Josef; Kulfan, Jan; Lakatos, Ferenc; Nakládal, Oto; Schlaghamerský, Jiří; Svatoš, Michal; Trombik, Jiří; Zábranský, Petr; Zach, Peter; Kula, Emanuel Xylosandrus germanus in Central Europe: Spread into and within the Czech Republic Journal Article Journal of Applied Entomology, 144 (6), pp. 423-433, 2020, ISSN: 0931-2048. @article{Fiala2020, title = {\textit{Xylosandrus germanus} in Central Europe: Spread into and within the Czech Republic}, author = {Tomáš Fiala and Jaroslav Holuša and Jiří Procházka and Lukáš Čížek and Marek Dzurenko and Jiří Foit and Juraj Galko and Josef Kašák and Jan Kulfan and Ferenc Lakatos and Oto Nakládal and Jiří Schlaghamerský and Michal Svatoš and Jiří Trombik and Petr Zábranský and Peter Zach and Emanuel Kula}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1111/jen.12759}, issn = {0931-2048}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-05-05}, journal = {Journal of Applied Entomology}, volume = {144}, number = {6}, pages = {423-433}, abstract = {Invasive organisms represent great threats to ecosystems and great challenges to forest management. In Europe, the black timber bark beetle (Xylosandrus germanus) is an invasive secondary pest that mostly attacks the logs of felled trees. We showed the invasion history for Europe and using many local surveys, we summarize the current distribution and other available information on X. germanus in the Czech Republic. We report that this species is distributed from the lowlands to the mountains in the Czech Republic; it is widespread in the eastern half of the country, where it is more abundant in the warmer south and southeast areas than in the cooler areas. Most (78%) of the known localities are at elevation below 400 m a.s.l. Although an ice storm greatly increased X. germanus abundance near the border with Austria, its high abundance did not result in damage to standing trees. Presence of X. germanus in the Czech Republic for over 10 years has not led to heavy tree infestation.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Invasive organisms represent great threats to ecosystems and great challenges to forest management. In Europe, the black timber bark beetle (Xylosandrus germanus) is an invasive secondary pest that mostly attacks the logs of felled trees. We showed the invasion history for Europe and using many local surveys, we summarize the current distribution and other available information on X. germanus in the Czech Republic. We report that this species is distributed from the lowlands to the mountains in the Czech Republic; it is widespread in the eastern half of the country, where it is more abundant in the warmer south and southeast areas than in the cooler areas. Most (78%) of the known localities are at elevation below 400 m a.s.l. Although an ice storm greatly increased X. germanus abundance near the border with Austria, its high abundance did not result in damage to standing trees. Presence of X. germanus in the Czech Republic for over 10 years has not led to heavy tree infestation. |
 | Honek, Alois; Brown, Peter M J; Martinkova, Zdenka; Skuhrovec, Jiri; Brabec, Marek; Burgio, Giovanni; Evans, Edward W; Fournier, Marc; Grez, Audrey A; Kulfan, Jan; Lami, Francesco; Lucas, Eric; Lumbierres, Belén; Masetti, Antonio; Mogilevich, Timofej; Orlova-Bienkowskaja, Marina; Phillips, William M; Pons, Xavier; Strobach, Jan; Viglasova, Sandra; Zach, Peter; Zaviezo, Tania Factors determining variation in colour morph frequencies in invasive Harmonia axyridis populations Journal Article Biological Invasions, 22 , pp. 2049–2062, 2020, ISSN: 1387-3547. @article{Honek2020, title = {Factors determining variation in colour morph frequencies in invasive \textit{Harmonia axyridis} populations}, author = {Alois Honek and Peter M. J. Brown and Zdenka Martinkova and Jiri Skuhrovec and Marek Brabec and Giovanni Burgio and Edward W. Evans and Marc Fournier and Audrey A. Grez and Jan Kulfan and Francesco Lami and Eric Lucas and Belén Lumbierres and Antonio Masetti and Timofej Mogilevich and Marina Orlova-Bienkowskaja and William M. Phillips and Xavier Pons and Jan Strobach and Sandra Viglasova and Peter Zach and Tania Zaviezo }, doi = {10.1007/s10530-020-02238-0}, issn = {1387-3547}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-03-13}, journal = {Biological Invasions}, volume = {22}, pages = {2049–2062}, abstract = {The Harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis Pallas, native to eastern Asia, is an invasive, non-native species that has recently achieved an almost worldwide distribution. A conspicuous feature of this species is colour polymorphism of the elytra. In its native area, the populations consist of a recessive non-melanic morph, several dominant melanic morphs and small numbers of other (rare) morphs. The morph proportions in native populations have been intensively studied and vary with geographic area, climate and time. In contrast, colour polymorphism in invaded regions has been little studied. We examine and try to account for the morph frequencies observed across the different invaded regions. In America, monomorphic populations consist of the non-melanic morphs while European populations contain also melanic morphs. In particular geographic areas of Europe, the average percentage of the non-melanic morphs varied between 78 and 99%. It was highest in the lowlands of northern Italy and central and northern Europe and decreased in the Alps and western (Spain, UK) and eastern (southeast Russia) margins of the recently invaded area. In central Europe the frequency of the non-melanic morphs decreased over the course of the year but increased over the years from 2010 to 2018. The local differences might thus arise through gradual change of the morph composition of the founder invasive, non-native population. However, the variation in non-melanic morph frequency was not correlated with climatic characteristics that might affect coccinellid polymorphism. The observed rate of change in morph proportions in our data was too small to explain the diversification of what was supposedly a uniform invasive, non-native population at the point of introduction.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The Harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis Pallas, native to eastern Asia, is an invasive, non-native species that has recently achieved an almost worldwide distribution. A conspicuous feature of this species is colour polymorphism of the elytra. In its native area, the populations consist of a recessive non-melanic morph, several dominant melanic morphs and small numbers of other (rare) morphs. The morph proportions in native populations have been intensively studied and vary with geographic area, climate and time. In contrast, colour polymorphism in invaded regions has been little studied. We examine and try to account for the morph frequencies observed across the different invaded regions. In America, monomorphic populations consist of the non-melanic morphs while European populations contain also melanic morphs. In particular geographic areas of Europe, the average percentage of the non-melanic morphs varied between 78 and 99%. It was highest in the lowlands of northern Italy and central and northern Europe and decreased in the Alps and western (Spain, UK) and eastern (southeast Russia) margins of the recently invaded area. In central Europe the frequency of the non-melanic morphs decreased over the course of the year but increased over the years from 2010 to 2018. The local differences might thus arise through gradual change of the morph composition of the founder invasive, non-native population. However, the variation in non-melanic morph frequency was not correlated with climatic characteristics that might affect coccinellid polymorphism. The observed rate of change in morph proportions in our data was too small to explain the diversification of what was supposedly a uniform invasive, non-native population at the point of introduction. |
 | Sarvašová, Lenka; Kulfan, Ján; Saniga, Miroslav; Zúbrik, Milan; Zach, Peter Winter geometrid moths in oak forests : Is monitoring a single species reliable to predict defoliation risk? Journal Article Forests, 11 (3), 2020, ISSN: 1999-4907. @article{Sarvašová2020, title = {Winter geometrid moths in oak forests : Is monitoring a single species reliable to predict defoliation risk?}, author = {Lenka Sarvašová and Ján Kulfan and Miroslav Saniga and Milan Zúbrik and Peter Zach}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/f11030288}, issn = {1999-4907}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-03-02}, journal = {Forests}, volume = {11}, number = {3}, abstract = {Species within the group of winter moths (Geometridae) are important oak defoliators in European forests. Adults of these species emerge either in late autumn (‘autumn species’) or in early spring (‘spring species’), and caterpillars of both ‘autumn’ and ‘spring’ species appear in spring. The abundance of adults assessed by regular monitoring allows the prediction of the defoliation intensity in trees by caterpillars in the following spring. ‘Autumn species’ (mostly a single one, Operophtera brumata) are monitored by forestry practices as pests, whereas ‘spring species’ are often not paid any attention. We hypothesised that ‘spring species’ could also have an important share in caterpillar assemblages in oak forests. We aimed to study the proportions between ‘autumn’ and ‘spring’ species in adult and larval stages. In a xeric thermophilous oak forest in southern Slovakia, Central Europe, we collected adult moths using sticky bands set up on trunks of Quercus pubescens during the winter of 2014–2015 and caterpillars from other trees belonging to the same oak species over the following spring. We also captured caterpillars from several oak species in various areas and over different years in Slovakia and Bulgaria, and we compiled relevant literature data. ‘Spring species’ recorded from a unique forest as adults during winter and as caterpillars in the following spring were significantly more abundant than ‘autumn species.’ Moreover, ‘spring species’ from Slovakian forests, regardless of the locality, the oak species and the year of sampling, reached high proportions, mostly over 50% of individuals in caterpillar assemblages. The ‘spring species’ Agriopis leucophaearia was the most abundant, followed by the ‘autumn species’ Operophtera brumata. ‘Spring species’ accounted for more than 50% of individuals in caterpillar assemblages in the Balkan Peninsula (Bulgaria) concerning one case, and they were of little importance in northern Greece. We recommend monitoring all winter moth adults (‘autumn’ and ‘spring’ species together) continuously in forestry practices, using sticky bands on oak trees from late autumn to early spring.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Species within the group of winter moths (Geometridae) are important oak defoliators in European forests. Adults of these species emerge either in late autumn (‘autumn species’) or in early spring (‘spring species’), and caterpillars of both ‘autumn’ and ‘spring’ species appear in spring. The abundance of adults assessed by regular monitoring allows the prediction of the defoliation intensity in trees by caterpillars in the following spring. ‘Autumn species’ (mostly a single one, Operophtera brumata) are monitored by forestry practices as pests, whereas ‘spring species’ are often not paid any attention. We hypothesised that ‘spring species’ could also have an important share in caterpillar assemblages in oak forests. We aimed to study the proportions between ‘autumn’ and ‘spring’ species in adult and larval stages. In a xeric thermophilous oak forest in southern Slovakia, Central Europe, we collected adult moths using sticky bands set up on trunks of Quercus pubescens during the winter of 2014–2015 and caterpillars from other trees belonging to the same oak species over the following spring. We also captured caterpillars from several oak species in various areas and over different years in Slovakia and Bulgaria, and we compiled relevant literature data. ‘Spring species’ recorded from a unique forest as adults during winter and as caterpillars in the following spring were significantly more abundant than ‘autumn species.’ Moreover, ‘spring species’ from Slovakian forests, regardless of the locality, the oak species and the year of sampling, reached high proportions, mostly over 50% of individuals in caterpillar assemblages. The ‘spring species’ Agriopis leucophaearia was the most abundant, followed by the ‘autumn species’ Operophtera brumata. ‘Spring species’ accounted for more than 50% of individuals in caterpillar assemblages in the Balkan Peninsula (Bulgaria) concerning one case, and they were of little importance in northern Greece. We recommend monitoring all winter moth adults (‘autumn’ and ‘spring’ species together) continuously in forestry practices, using sticky bands on oak trees from late autumn to early spring. |
| Kulfan, Ján; Dzurenko, Marek; Parák, Michal; Sarvašová, Lenka; Saniga, Miroslav; Brown, Peter; Zach, Peter Larval feeding of Cydalima perspectalis on box trees with a focus on the spatial and temporal distribution Journal Article Plant Protection Science, 11 , 2020, ISSN: 1212-2580. @article{Kulfan2020, title = {Larval feeding of \textit{Cydalima perspectalis} on box trees with a focus on the spatial and temporal distribution}, author = {Ján Kulfan and Marek Dzurenko and Michal Parák and Lenka Sarvašová and Miroslav Saniga and Peter Brown and Peter Zach}, doi = {10.17221/126/2019-PPS}, issn = {1212-2580}, year = {2020}, date = {2020-01-01}, journal = {Plant Protection Science}, volume = {11}, abstract = {The box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis is an invasive pest on box trees originating from Eastern Asia which spread throughout Europe. We assessed the efficacy of photo-eclectors (emergence boxes) for the detection of its larvae. We also investigated their spatial distribution on the hosts and the spatial and temporal distribution of the leaf damage caused by this pest in Slovakia. Our results showed non-uniform vertical distribution of the overwintering larvae and leaf damage on the trees. The larval abundance in the spring was significantly affected by the height of the branches above the ground. During spring, the larvae occurred most abundantly in the upper parts of the trees. The leaf damage was greatest in the lower parts throughout the growing season. During the progress of the infestation, the development of the damage in the lower and middle parts was similar. In the upper part, the initial increase in the damage was slow, but accelerated four months before the complete defoliation. The field estimation of the proportion of damaged leaves and the accurate assessment based on counting the damaged leaves suggest a consistency between these estimates. Hence, a quick field estimation of the leaf damage may be utilised by horticultural practices.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The box tree moth Cydalima perspectalis is an invasive pest on box trees originating from Eastern Asia which spread throughout Europe. We assessed the efficacy of photo-eclectors (emergence boxes) for the detection of its larvae. We also investigated their spatial distribution on the hosts and the spatial and temporal distribution of the leaf damage caused by this pest in Slovakia. Our results showed non-uniform vertical distribution of the overwintering larvae and leaf damage on the trees. The larval abundance in the spring was significantly affected by the height of the branches above the ground. During spring, the larvae occurred most abundantly in the upper parts of the trees. The leaf damage was greatest in the lower parts throughout the growing season. During the progress of the infestation, the development of the damage in the lower and middle parts was similar. In the upper part, the initial increase in the damage was slow, but accelerated four months before the complete defoliation. The field estimation of the proportion of damaged leaves and the accurate assessment based on counting the damaged leaves suggest a consistency between these estimates. Hence, a quick field estimation of the leaf damage may be utilised by horticultural practices. |
2019 |
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| Kulfan, Ján; Sarvašová, Lenka; Parák, Michal; Zach, Peter Effects of a host tree on movement and distribution of winter geometrid moths (Lepidoptera): thickness of trunks and branches Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 46 (2), pp. 83-90, 2019, ISBN: 1336-5266. @article{Kulfan2019b, title = {Effects of a host tree on movement and distribution of winter geometrid moths (Lepidoptera): thickness of trunks and branches}, author = {Ján Kulfan and Lenka Sarvašová and Michal Parák and Peter Zach}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2019-0011}, isbn = {1336-5266}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-08-21}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {83-90}, abstract = {Adult moths from an ecological group of winter geometrid species look for trees where they copulate and females lay eggs. We investigated how tree trunk and lower branch thickness affects the occurrence of females on trunks and branches and how the density of females and tree trunk thickness affects the occurrence of males on trunks. The research was carried out in a xeric thermophilous oak forest in southern Slovakia (Central Europe) in the winter season 2014–2015. The moths were obtained from Quercus pubescens trees by sticky bands. Three autumn species Operophtera brumata, Erannis defoliaria, Alsophila aceraria and four spring species Agriopis leucophaearia, Agriopis marginaria, Apocheima hispidaria, Phigalia pilosaria were recorded. We have found out that females had not exclusively negative geotactic behaviour as they (except for the rare P. pilosaria) occurred also on lower branches. Tree trunk and lower branch thickness had a positive effect on abundance of females of the three most abundant species (A. leucophaearia, O. brumata, E. defoliaria) on trunks and lower branches. Tree trunk thickness had a positive effect on density of the females of A. leucophaearia on trunks but not on O. brumata and E. defoliaria. The abundance of the males of O. brumata, E. defoliaria and A. leucophaearia on trunks was positively affected by tree trunk thickness and the density of their females.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Adult moths from an ecological group of winter geometrid species look for trees where they copulate and females lay eggs. We investigated how tree trunk and lower branch thickness affects the occurrence of females on trunks and branches and how the density of females and tree trunk thickness affects the occurrence of males on trunks. The research was carried out in a xeric thermophilous oak forest in southern Slovakia (Central Europe) in the winter season 2014–2015. The moths were obtained from Quercus pubescens trees by sticky bands. Three autumn species Operophtera brumata, Erannis defoliaria, Alsophila aceraria and four spring species Agriopis leucophaearia, Agriopis marginaria, Apocheima hispidaria, Phigalia pilosaria were recorded. We have found out that females had not exclusively negative geotactic behaviour as they (except for the rare P. pilosaria) occurred also on lower branches. Tree trunk and lower branch thickness had a positive effect on abundance of females of the three most abundant species (A. leucophaearia, O. brumata, E. defoliaria) on trunks and lower branches. Tree trunk thickness had a positive effect on density of the females of A. leucophaearia on trunks but not on O. brumata and E. defoliaria. The abundance of the males of O. brumata, E. defoliaria and A. leucophaearia on trunks was positively affected by tree trunk thickness and the density of their females. |
 | Økland, Bjørn; Flø, Daniel; Schroeder, Martin; Zach, Peter; Cocos, Dragos; Martikainen, Petri; Siitonen, Juha; Mandelshtam, Michail Y; Musolin, Dmitry L; Neuvonen, Seppo; Vakula, Jozef; Nikolov, Christo; Lindelöw, Åke; Voolma, Kaljo Range expansion of the small spruce bark beetle Ips amitinus: a newcomer in northern Europe Journal Article Agricultural and Forest Entomology, 21 (3), pp. 286-298, 2019, ISSN: 1461-9555. @article{Økland2019, title = {Range expansion of the small spruce bark beetle \textit{Ips amitinus}: a newcomer in northern Europe}, author = {Bjørn Økland and Daniel Flø and Martin Schroeder and Peter Zach and Dragos Cocos and Petri Martikainen and Juha Siitonen and Michail Y. Mandelshtam and Dmitry L. Musolin and Seppo Neuvonen and Jozef Vakula and Christo Nikolov and Åke Lindelöw and Kaljo Voolma}, doi = {10.1111/afe.12331}, issn = {1461-9555}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-03-13}, journal = {Agricultural and Forest Entomology}, volume = {21}, number = {3}, pages = {286-298}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
 | Galko, J; Dzurenko, M; Ranger, C M; Kulfan, J; Kula, E; Nikolov, C; Zúbrik, M; Zach, P Forests, 10 (1), 2019. @article{Galko2019, title = {Distribution, Habitat Preference, and Management of the Invasive Ambrosia Beetle Xylosandrus germanus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) in European Forests with an Emphasis on the West Carpathians}, author = {J. Galko and M. Dzurenko and C.M. Ranger and J. Kulfan and E. Kula and C. Nikolov and M. Zúbrik and P. Zach }, doi = {https://doi.org/10.3390/f10010010}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-01-01}, journal = {Forests}, volume = {10}, number = {1}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
 | Kulfan, Ján; Sarvašová, Lenka; Parák, Michal; Zach, Peter Effects of a host tree on movement and distribution of winter geometrid moths (Lepidoptera): thickness of trunks and branches Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 46 (2), pp. 83–90, 2019, ISSN: 1336-5266. @article{Kulfan2019, title = {Effects of a host tree on movement and distribution of winter geometrid moths (Lepidoptera): thickness of trunks and branches}, author = {Ján Kulfan and Lenka Sarvašová and Michal Parák and Peter Zach}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/foecol-2019-0002-1.pdf}, doi = {10.2478/foecol-2019-0011}, issn = {1336-5266}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {46}, number = {2}, pages = {83–90}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
| Vétek, Gábor; Zach, Peter; Matošević, Dinka; Tuba, Katalin; Lakatos, Ferenc; Kulfan, Jan; Csóka, György; Gomboc, Stanislav; Nagy, Sándor; Glavendekić, Milka; Avtzis, Dimitrios N; de Groot, Maarten; Szőcs, Levente; Papazova-Anakieva, Irena; Nacheski, Sterja; Hrnčić, Snježana; Radonjić, Sanja; Fekete, Veronika Invasion by the box tree moth, Cydalima perspectalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), in southeastern Europe Incollection Invasive dendrophilous organisms: challenges and protection operations: Collective monograph, pp. 17-28, Pushkino , 2019, ISBN: 978–5–94219–250–1. @incollection{Vétek2019, title = {Invasion by the box tree moth, \textit{Cydalima perspectalis} (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), in southeastern Europe}, author = {Gábor Vétek and Peter Zach and Dinka Matošević and Katalin Tuba and Ferenc Lakatos and Jan Kulfan and György Csóka and Stanislav Gomboc and Sándor Nagy and Milka Glavendekić and Dimitrios N. Avtzis and Maarten de Groot and Levente Szőcs and Irena Papazova-Anakieva and Sterja Nacheski and Snježana Hrnčić and Sanja Radonjić and Veronika Fekete}, isbn = {978–5–94219–250–1}, year = {2019}, date = {2019-01-01}, booktitle = {Invasive dendrophilous organisms: challenges and protection operations: Collective monograph}, pages = {17-28}, publisher = {Pushkino }, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {incollection} } |
2018 |
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 | Pastirčáková, K; Adamčíková, K; Pastirčák, M; Zach, P; Galko, J; Kováč, M; Laco, J Two blue-stain fungi colonizing Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) trees infested by bark beetles in Slovakia, Central Europe Journal Article Biologia, 73 (11), pp. 1053-1066, 2018, ISSN: 0006-3088. @article{Pastirčáková2018c, title = {Two blue-stain fungi colonizing Scots pine (\textit{Pinus sylvestris}) trees infested by bark beetles in Slovakia, Central Europe}, author = {K. Pastirčáková and K. Adamčíková and M. Pastirčák and P. Zach and J. Galko and M. Kováč and J. Laco}, doi = {10.2478/s11756-018-0114-6}, issn = {0006-3088}, year = {2018}, date = {2018-09-17}, journal = {Biologia}, volume = {73}, number = {11}, pages = {1053-1066}, abstract = {Excessive mortality of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) trees has recently been observed in the Záhorská nížina lowland in western Slovakia, Central Europe. Continuous drought, bark beetles and blue-stain fungi are likely to play a crucial role in this dieback of pines in a warm sandy area. Two blue-stain fungi, Ophiostoma ips and Ophiostoma minus, were found here on Scots pine trunks infested by bark beetles. These fungi were isolated and identified based on morphological properties and DNA sequences (ITS, LSU, β-tubulin). They colonized the inner bark, phloem and blue-stained sapwood, and were recorded in the galleries of Orthotomicus longicollis and other species of this genus. The occurrence of O. minus was massive; the fungus was found to produce perithecia abundantly in dying pines. Detailed descriptions, illustrations and global distribution of the two fungal species on host pine species are provided. The records of O. ips and those of O. minus are new for the mycoflora of Slovakia. Undetermined mycophagous nematodes were found inside the perithecia of O. ips. The role of bark beetles as real and potential vectors (Ips spp., Orthotomicus spp., Tomicus spp., Hylurgus ligniperda, Hylastes sp.) of blue-stain fungi in a declining pine forest is discussed.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Excessive mortality of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) trees has recently been observed in the Záhorská nížina lowland in western Slovakia, Central Europe. Continuous drought, bark beetles and blue-stain fungi are likely to play a crucial role in this dieback of pines in a warm sandy area. Two blue-stain fungi, Ophiostoma ips and Ophiostoma minus, were found here on Scots pine trunks infested by bark beetles. These fungi were isolated and identified based on morphological properties and DNA sequences (ITS, LSU, β-tubulin). They colonized the inner bark, phloem and blue-stained sapwood, and were recorded in the galleries of Orthotomicus longicollis and other species of this genus. The occurrence of O. minus was massive; the fungus was found to produce perithecia abundantly in dying pines. Detailed descriptions, illustrations and global distribution of the two fungal species on host pine species are provided. The records of O. ips and those of O. minus are new for the mycoflora of Slovakia. Undetermined mycophagous nematodes were found inside the perithecia of O. ips. The role of bark beetles as real and potential vectors (Ips spp., Orthotomicus spp., Tomicus spp., Hylurgus ligniperda, Hylastes sp.) of blue-stain fungi in a declining pine forest is discussed. |
 | Zúbrik, M; Pilarska, D; Kulfan, J; Barta, M; Hajek, A E; Bittner, T D; Zach, P; Takov, D; Kunca, A; Rell, S; Hirka, A; Csóka, G Journal of Invertebrate Pathology, 155 , pp. 52-54, 2018, ISSN: 0022-2011. @article{Zúbrik2018, title = {Phytophagous larvae occurring in Central and Southeastern European oak forests as a potential host of Entomophaga maimaiga (Entomophthorales: Entomophthoraceae) – A field study}, author = {M. Zúbrik and D. Pilarska and J. Kulfan and M. Barta and A.E. Hajek and T.D. Bittner and P. Zach and D. Takov and A. Kunca and S. Rell and A. Hirka and G. Csóka}, url = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2018.05.003}, doi = {10.1016/j.jip.2018.05.003}, issn = {0022-2011}, year = {2018}, date = {2018-05-11}, journal = {Journal of Invertebrate Pathology}, volume = {155}, pages = {52-54}, abstract = {We evaluated the presence and impact of Entomophaga maimaiga on both target and non-target phytophagous larvae. All six study plots, with low gypsy moth population density, were situated in Central and Southeastern European oak forests and E. maimaiga had previously been reported from these plots. Totally, 45 of 4,045 (1.13%) collected non-target larvae died due to fungal infections. No non-target insect specimen was infected by E. maimaiga, although the presence of the pathogen could not be fully excluded in three cadavers. Out of 1,780 L. dispar larvae collected, 15 individuals (0.84%) were infected by E. maimaiga.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } We evaluated the presence and impact of Entomophaga maimaiga on both target and non-target phytophagous larvae. All six study plots, with low gypsy moth population density, were situated in Central and Southeastern European oak forests and E. maimaiga had previously been reported from these plots. Totally, 45 of 4,045 (1.13%) collected non-target larvae died due to fungal infections. No non-target insect specimen was infected by E. maimaiga, although the presence of the pathogen could not be fully excluded in three cadavers. Out of 1,780 L. dispar larvae collected, 15 individuals (0.84%) were infected by E. maimaiga. |
 | Kulfan, J; Sarvašová, L; Parák, M; Dzurenko, M; Zach, P Can late flushing trees avoid attack by moth larvae in temperate forests? Journal Article Plant Protection Science, 54 , pp. 272-283, 2018, ISSN: 12122580. @article{Kulfan2018, title = {Can late flushing trees avoid attack by moth larvae in temperate forests?}, author = {J. Kulfan and L. Sarvašová and M. Parák and M. Dzurenko and P. Zach}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.17221/11/2018-PPS}, issn = {12122580}, year = {2018}, date = {2018-01-01}, journal = {Plant Protection Science}, volume = {54}, pages = {272-283}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } |
| Holecová, Milada; *, Peter Zach; Hollá, Katarína; Šebestová, Miroslava; Klesniaková, Mária; Šestáková, Anna; Honěk, Alois; Nedvěd, Oldřich; Parák, Michal; Martinková, Zdenka; Holec, Juraj; Viglášová, Sandra; Brown, Peter M J; Roy, Helen E; Kulfan, Ján Overwintering of ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on Scots pine in Central Europe Journal Article European Journal of Entomology, 115 , pp. 658-667, 2018, ISSN: 1210-5759. @article{Holecová2018, title = {Overwintering of ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on Scots pine in Central Europe}, author = {Milada Holecová and Peter Zach * and Katarína Hollá and Miroslava Šebestová and Mária Klesniaková and Anna Šestáková and Alois Honěk and Oldřich Nedvěd and Michal Parák and Zdenka Martinková and Juraj Holec and Sandra Viglášová and Peter M.J. Brown and Helen E. Roy and Ján Kulfan}, doi = {10.14411/eje.2018.065}, issn = {1210-5759}, year = {2018}, date = {2018-01-01}, journal = {European Journal of Entomology}, volume = {115}, pages = {658-667}, abstract = {We surveyed ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in 10 stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), all monoculture stands 5-100 years old, in western Slovakia, Central Europe, over two successive periods, October 2013 - March 2014 and October 2014 - March 2015. The winter in each period was exceptionally mild. Ladybirds were collected from the lower branches of pine trees using beating trays and were present in 61% of the 1040 samples (one sample containing ladybirds from 20 branches, 1 m long each). In total 3965 individuals of 20 species were recorded. Non-conifer dwelling species associated with broadleaved trees or herbaceous plants prevailed (45% of species), followed by conifer specialists (40%) and generalists (15%). Although 13 species were found at least in one winter month, December, January or February, only four of them, Exochomus quadripustulatus, Coccinella septempunctata, Harmonia axyridis and Hippodamia variegata, were recorded continually during both winters. The number of species, the abundance of all ladybirds and the abundance of dominant species (E. quadripustulatus, C. septempunctata and H. axyridis) decreased from late autumn towards winter and remained lowest during this most adverse time of the year for ladybirds. Overwintering species assemblages of ladybirds changed over time and varied with age of pine stand. Our results suggest that Scots pine in Central Europe supports species rich assemblages of ladybirds from late autumn to early spring and, being widely distributed, it could be suited to winter surveying of ladybirds at large spatial scales to reveal behavioural and ecological responses of species to changing weather or different climates.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } We surveyed ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in 10 stands of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), all monoculture stands 5-100 years old, in western Slovakia, Central Europe, over two successive periods, October 2013 - March 2014 and October 2014 - March 2015. The winter in each period was exceptionally mild. Ladybirds were collected from the lower branches of pine trees using beating trays and were present in 61% of the 1040 samples (one sample containing ladybirds from 20 branches, 1 m long each). In total 3965 individuals of 20 species were recorded. Non-conifer dwelling species associated with broadleaved trees or herbaceous plants prevailed (45% of species), followed by conifer specialists (40%) and generalists (15%). Although 13 species were found at least in one winter month, December, January or February, only four of them, Exochomus quadripustulatus, Coccinella septempunctata, Harmonia axyridis and Hippodamia variegata, were recorded continually during both winters. The number of species, the abundance of all ladybirds and the abundance of dominant species (E. quadripustulatus, C. septempunctata and H. axyridis) decreased from late autumn towards winter and remained lowest during this most adverse time of the year for ladybirds. Overwintering species assemblages of ladybirds changed over time and varied with age of pine stand. Our results suggest that Scots pine in Central Europe supports species rich assemblages of ladybirds from late autumn to early spring and, being widely distributed, it could be suited to winter surveying of ladybirds at large spatial scales to reveal behavioural and ecological responses of species to changing weather or different climates. |
2017 |
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 | Viglášová, S; Nedvěd, O; Zach, P; Kulfan, J; Parák, M; Honěk, A; Martinková, Z; Roy, H E Species assemblages of ladybirds including the harlequin ladybird Harmonia axyridis: a comparison at large spatial scale in urban habitats Journal Article BioControl, 62 (3), pp. 409-421, 2017. @article{Viglášová2017, title = {Species assemblages of ladybirds including the harlequin ladybird \textit{Harmonia axyridis}: a comparison at large spatial scale in urban habitats}, author = {S. Viglášová and O. Nedvěd and P. Zach and J. Kulfan and M. Parák and A. Honěk and Z. Martinková and H.E. Roy}, url = {https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10526-017-9793-0}, doi = {10.1007/s10526-017-9793-0}, year = {2017}, date = {2017-02-15}, journal = {BioControl}, volume = {62}, number = {3}, pages = {409-421}, abstract = {We evaluated the status of native ladybird assemblages in the presence of the non-native ladybird Harmonia axyridis Pallas (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in three European countries. To achieve this, we assessed the abundance of ladybirds from common host plants in urban areas of Great Britain, Czech Republic and Slovak Republic in 2014. We determined (i) the effects of season, host plant, location, abundance of H. axyridis and aphids on the ladybird species assemblage, (ii) the relationship between ladybird abundance and aphid density, (iii) the relationship between diversity of native ladybird species and the abundance of H. axyridis. There was a non-linear relationship between abundance of ladybirds and abundance of aphids but we found the abundance of other ladybird species was not correlated with H. axyridis. We highlight the value of large-spatial scale studies for revealing patterns in community assemblages and ultimately informing understanding of ecosystem resilience.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } We evaluated the status of native ladybird assemblages in the presence of the non-native ladybird Harmonia axyridis Pallas (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in three European countries. To achieve this, we assessed the abundance of ladybirds from common host plants in urban areas of Great Britain, Czech Republic and Slovak Republic in 2014. We determined (i) the effects of season, host plant, location, abundance of H. axyridis and aphids on the ladybird species assemblage, (ii) the relationship between ladybird abundance and aphid density, (iii) the relationship between diversity of native ladybird species and the abundance of H. axyridis. There was a non-linear relationship between abundance of ladybirds and abundance of aphids but we found the abundance of other ladybird species was not correlated with H. axyridis. We highlight the value of large-spatial scale studies for revealing patterns in community assemblages and ultimately informing understanding of ecosystem resilience. |
2016 |
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| Konôpka, Bohdan; Zach, Peter; and Kulfan, Ján Wind - An important ecological factor and destructive agent in forests Journal Article Lesnícky časopis - Forestry Journal, 62 (2), pp. 123-130, 2016, ISSN: 0323-1046. @article{Konôpka2016, title = {Wind - An important ecological factor and destructive agent in forests}, author = {Bohdan Konôpka and Peter Zach and and Ján Kulfan}, doi = {10.1515/forj-2016-0013}, issn = {0323-1046}, year = {2016}, date = {2016-09-01}, journal = {Lesnícky časopis - Forestry Journal}, volume = {62}, number = {2}, pages = {123-130}, abstract = {Wind is both an ecological provider and disturbance facilitator influences trees and other organisms in forests. Impacts of wind on indu-vidual trees and forests mainly depend on the strength (or intensity) of the wind and the stability of the trees. Wind causes large-scale damage to forests and serious economical losses for the forestry sector within Europe. Therefore, knowledge of interactions between wind and trees and/or forests provides the baseline for developing adequate prevention or mitigation of the negative consequences associated with wind disturbances in forest ecosystems. Herein, we analyse the wind as an ecological and disturbance factor in forests in Europe, emphasising forests in Slovakia. Here, strong winds destroy mostly spruce dominated forests in the following regions; Orava, High and Low Tatra Mountains, Great Fatra Mountains, Pohronie, Poľana Mountains and Slovak Ore Mountains. Increasing volumes of timber damaged by windstorms have been documented since 1961, with the maximum damage recorded in 2004. Yearly volumes of damaged timber of approximately 2.5 mil. m 3 are predicted from 2016 to 2030. This highlights the data requirement regarding wind disturbances for integrated forest protection against dangerous winds and other disturbance agents in forest ecosystems in Slovakia and other European countries. }, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Wind is both an ecological provider and disturbance facilitator influences trees and other organisms in forests. Impacts of wind on indu-vidual trees and forests mainly depend on the strength (or intensity) of the wind and the stability of the trees. Wind causes large-scale damage to forests and serious economical losses for the forestry sector within Europe. Therefore, knowledge of interactions between wind and trees and/or forests provides the baseline for developing adequate prevention or mitigation of the negative consequences associated with wind disturbances in forest ecosystems. Herein, we analyse the wind as an ecological and disturbance factor in forests in Europe, emphasising forests in Slovakia. Here, strong winds destroy mostly spruce dominated forests in the following regions; Orava, High and Low Tatra Mountains, Great Fatra Mountains, Pohronie, Poľana Mountains and Slovak Ore Mountains. Increasing volumes of timber damaged by windstorms have been documented since 1961, with the maximum damage recorded in 2004. Yearly volumes of damaged timber of approximately 2.5 mil. m 3 are predicted from 2016 to 2030. This highlights the data requirement regarding wind disturbances for integrated forest protection against dangerous winds and other disturbance agents in forest ecosystems in Slovakia and other European countries. |
 | Zach, P; Kršiak, B; Kulfan, J; Parák, M; Kontschán, J International Journal of Acarology, 42 (4), pp. 212-217, 2016, ISSN: 1945-3892. @article{Zach2016, title = {Mites \textit{Trichouropoda} and \textit{Uroobovella} spp. (Uropodoidea) phoretic on bark beetles (Scolytinae): a comparison from a declining mountain spruce forest in Central Europe}, author = {P. Zach and B. Kršiak and J. Kulfan and M. Parák and J. Kontschán}, url = {http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01647954.2016.1154107}, doi = {10.1080/01647954.2016.1154107}, issn = {1945-3892}, year = {2016}, date = {2016-03-03}, journal = {International Journal of Acarology}, volume = {42}, number = {4}, pages = {212-217}, abstract = {Mites of the genera Trichouropoda and Uroobovella are characteristic associates of bark beetles which act as agents of their dispersal in many types of forest ecosystems worldwide. We compared the phoretic assemblages of Trichouropoda and Uroobovella mites on six species of bark beetle associated with Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karsten), namely: Dryocoetes autographus Ratzeburg, Hylastes cunicularius Erichson, Hylurgops palliatus (Gyllenhal), Ips typographus (Linnaeus), Pityogenes chalcographus (Linnaeus) and Polygraphus poligraphus (Linnaeus). Bark beetles were caught at random in non-baited flight-interception traps set in the shrub layer of a declining mountain spruce forest in the Tatra Mountains, West Carpathians, Central Europe. Over four years of a bark beetle outbreak, a total of six species of mites and 12 phoretic associations between mites and beetles were recorded. A newly documented host association includes that of Trichouropoda pecinai Hirschmann & Wiśniewski with H. palliatus. The most frequently recorded mite-beetle associations were: T. pecinai with H. cunicularius, Trichouropoda obscura (Koch) with H. palliatus, Trichouropoda polytricha (Vitzthum) with P. chalcographus and I. typographus and Uroobovella vinicolora (Vitzthum) with D. autographus. The results suggest that most of the recorded mite species have distinct bark beetle dispersants and that niche partitioning in these dispersants may be reflected by the observed mite–host associations.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Mites of the genera Trichouropoda and Uroobovella are characteristic associates of bark beetles which act as agents of their dispersal in many types of forest ecosystems worldwide. We compared the phoretic assemblages of Trichouropoda and Uroobovella mites on six species of bark beetle associated with Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karsten), namely: Dryocoetes autographus Ratzeburg, Hylastes cunicularius Erichson, Hylurgops palliatus (Gyllenhal), Ips typographus (Linnaeus), Pityogenes chalcographus (Linnaeus) and Polygraphus poligraphus (Linnaeus). Bark beetles were caught at random in non-baited flight-interception traps set in the shrub layer of a declining mountain spruce forest in the Tatra Mountains, West Carpathians, Central Europe. Over four years of a bark beetle outbreak, a total of six species of mites and 12 phoretic associations between mites and beetles were recorded. A newly documented host association includes that of Trichouropoda pecinai Hirschmann & Wiśniewski with H. palliatus. The most frequently recorded mite-beetle associations were: T. pecinai with H. cunicularius, Trichouropoda obscura (Koch) with H. palliatus, Trichouropoda polytricha (Vitzthum) with P. chalcographus and I. typographus and Uroobovella vinicolora (Vitzthum) with D. autographus. The results suggest that most of the recorded mite species have distinct bark beetle dispersants and that niche partitioning in these dispersants may be reflected by the observed mite–host associations. |
 | Kulfan, J; Dvořáčková, K; Zach, P; Parák, M; Svitok, M Distribution of Lepidopteran Larvae on Norway Spruce: Effects of Slope and Crown Aspect Journal Article Environmental Entomology, 45 (2), pp. 436-445, 2016. @article{Kulfan2016, title = {Distribution of Lepidopteran Larvae on Norway Spruce: Effects of Slope and Crown Aspect}, author = {J. Kulfan and K. Dvořáčková and P. Zach and M. Parák and M. Svitok}, url = {https://academic.oup.com/ee/article-abstract/45/2/436/2464918/Distribution-of-Lepidopteran-Larvae-on-Norway?redirectedFrom=fulltext}, doi = {doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvv221}, year = {2016}, date = {2016-01-21}, journal = {Environmental Entomology}, volume = {45}, number = {2}, pages = {436-445}, abstract = {Lepidoptera associated with Norway spruce, Picea abies (L.) Karsten, play important roles in ecosystem processes, acting as plant pests, prey for predators, and hosts for parasites and parasitoids. Their distribution patterns in spruce crowns and forests are only poorly understood. We examined how slope and crown aspect affect the occurrence and abundance of moth larvae on solitary spruce trees in a montane region in Central Europe. Moth larvae were collected from southern and northern crowns of trees growing on south- and north-facing slopes (four treatments) using emergence boxes at the end of winter and by the beating method during the growing season. Species responses to slope and crown aspect were not uniform. Treatment effects on moth larvae were stronger in the winter than during the growing season. In winter, the abundance of bud-boring larvae was significantly higher in northern than in southern crowns regardless of the slope aspect, while both slope and aspect had marginally significant effects on abundance of miners. During the growing season, the occurrence of free-living larvae was similar among treatments. Emergence boxes and beating spruce branches are complementary techniques providing valuable insights into the assemblage structure of moth larvae on Norway spruce. Due to the uneven distribution of larvae detected in this study, we recommend adoption of a protocol that explicitly includes sampling of trees from contrasting slopes and branches from contrasting crown aspect in all seasons.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Lepidoptera associated with Norway spruce, Picea abies (L.) Karsten, play important roles in ecosystem processes, acting as plant pests, prey for predators, and hosts for parasites and parasitoids. Their distribution patterns in spruce crowns and forests are only poorly understood. We examined how slope and crown aspect affect the occurrence and abundance of moth larvae on solitary spruce trees in a montane region in Central Europe. Moth larvae were collected from southern and northern crowns of trees growing on south- and north-facing slopes (four treatments) using emergence boxes at the end of winter and by the beating method during the growing season. Species responses to slope and crown aspect were not uniform. Treatment effects on moth larvae were stronger in the winter than during the growing season. In winter, the abundance of bud-boring larvae was significantly higher in northern than in southern crowns regardless of the slope aspect, while both slope and aspect had marginally significant effects on abundance of miners. During the growing season, the occurrence of free-living larvae was similar among treatments. Emergence boxes and beating spruce branches are complementary techniques providing valuable insights into the assemblage structure of moth larvae on Norway spruce. Due to the uneven distribution of larvae detected in this study, we recommend adoption of a protocol that explicitly includes sampling of trees from contrasting slopes and branches from contrasting crown aspect in all seasons. |
Roy, H E; Brown, P M J; Adriaens, T; Berkvens, N; Borges, I; Clusella-Trullas, S; De_Clercq, P; Eschen, R; Estoup, A; Evans, E W; Facon, B; Gardiner, M M; Gil, A; Grez, A; Guillemaud, T; Haelewaters, D; Honěk, A; Howe, A G; Hui, C; Hutchison, W D; Kenis, M; Koch, R L; Kulfan, J; Lawson_Handley, L; Lombaert, E; Loomans, A; Losey, J; Lukashuk, A O; Maes, D; Magro, A; Murray, K M; San_Martin, G; Martinkova, Z; Minnaar, I; Nedved, O; Orlova-Bienkowskaja, M J; Rabitsch, W; Peter_Ravn, H; Rondoni, G; Rorke, S L; Ryndevich, S K; Saethre, M -G; Onofre, Soares A; Stals, R; Tinsley, M C; Vandereycken, A; van_Wielink, P; Viglášová, S; Zach, P; Zaviezo, T; Zhao, Z The harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis: global perspectives on invasion history and ecology Journal Article Biological Invasions, 18 , pp. 997-1044, 2016, ISSN: 1387-3547. @article{Roy2016, title = {The harlequin ladybird, \textit{Harmonia axyridis}: global perspectives on invasion history and ecology}, author = {H.E. Roy and P.M.J. Brown and T. Adriaens and N. Berkvens and I. Borges and S. Clusella-Trullas and P. De_Clercq and R. Eschen and A. Estoup and E.W. Evans and B. Facon and M.M. Gardiner and A. Gil and A. Grez and T. Guillemaud and D. Haelewaters and A. Honěk and A.G. Howe and C. Hui and W.D. Hutchison and M. Kenis and R.L. Koch and J. Kulfan and L. Lawson_Handley and E. Lombaert and A. Loomans and J. Losey and A.O. Lukashuk and D. Maes and A. Magro and K.M. Murray and G. San_Martin and Z. Martinkova and I. Minnaar and O. Nedved and M.J. Orlova-Bienkowskaja and W. Rabitsch and H. Peter_Ravn and G. Rondoni and S.L. Rorke and S.K. Ryndevich and M.-G. Saethre and A. Soares Onofre and R. Stals and M.C. Tinsley and A. Vandereycken and P. van_Wielink and S. Viglášová and P. Zach and T. Zaviezo and Z. Zhao}, url = {https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10530-016-1077-6}, doi = {10.1007/s10530-016-1077-6}, issn = {1387-3547}, year = {2016}, date = {2016-01-01}, journal = {Biological Invasions}, volume = {18}, pages = {997-1044}, abstract = {The harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), is native to Asia but has been intentionally introduced to many countries as a biological control agent of pest insects. In numerous countries, however, it has been introduced unintentionally. The dramatic spread of H. axyridis within many countries has been met with considerable trepidation. It is a generalist top predator, able to thrive in many habitats and across wide climatic conditions. It poses a threat to biodiversity, particularly aphidophagous insects, through competition and predation, and in many countries adverse effects have been reported on other species, particularly coccinellids. However, the patterns are not consistent around the world and seem to be affected by many factors including landscape and climate. Research on H. axyridis has provided detailed insights into invasion biology from broad patterns and processes to approaches in surveillance and monitoring. An impressive number of studies on this alien species have provided mechanistic evidence alongside models explaining large-scale patterns and processes. The involvement of citizens in monitoring this species in a number of countries around the world is inspiring and has provided data on scales that would be otherwise unachievable. Harmonia axyridis has successfully been used as a model invasive alien species and has been the inspiration for global collaborations at various scales. There is considerable scope to expand the research and associated collaborations, particularly to increase the breadth of parallel studies conducted in the native and invaded regions. Indeed a qualitative comparison of biological traits across the native and invaded range suggests that there are differences which ultimately could influence the population dynamics of this invader. Here we provide an overview of the invasion history and ecology of H. axyridis globally with consideration of future research perspectives. We reflect broadly on the contributions of such research to our understanding of invasion biology while also informing policy and people.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } The harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), is native to Asia but has been intentionally introduced to many countries as a biological control agent of pest insects. In numerous countries, however, it has been introduced unintentionally. The dramatic spread of H. axyridis within many countries has been met with considerable trepidation. It is a generalist top predator, able to thrive in many habitats and across wide climatic conditions. It poses a threat to biodiversity, particularly aphidophagous insects, through competition and predation, and in many countries adverse effects have been reported on other species, particularly coccinellids. However, the patterns are not consistent around the world and seem to be affected by many factors including landscape and climate. Research on H. axyridis has provided detailed insights into invasion biology from broad patterns and processes to approaches in surveillance and monitoring. An impressive number of studies on this alien species have provided mechanistic evidence alongside models explaining large-scale patterns and processes. The involvement of citizens in monitoring this species in a number of countries around the world is inspiring and has provided data on scales that would be otherwise unachievable. Harmonia axyridis has successfully been used as a model invasive alien species and has been the inspiration for global collaborations at various scales. There is considerable scope to expand the research and associated collaborations, particularly to increase the breadth of parallel studies conducted in the native and invaded regions. Indeed a qualitative comparison of biological traits across the native and invaded range suggests that there are differences which ultimately could influence the population dynamics of this invader. Here we provide an overview of the invasion history and ecology of H. axyridis globally with consideration of future research perspectives. We reflect broadly on the contributions of such research to our understanding of invasion biology while also informing policy and people. | |
2015 |
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Mihál, Ivan; Gajdoš, Peter; Žila, Pavel Harvestmen (Arachnida: Opiliones) of open biotopes in the Poloniny National Park (north-eastern Slovakia) Journal Article Fragmenta Faunistica, 58 (1), pp. 51-58, 2015. @article{Mihál2015c, title = {Harvestmen (Arachnida: Opiliones) of open biotopes in the Poloniny National Park (north-eastern Slovakia)}, author = {Ivan Mihál and Peter Gajdoš and Pavel Žila }, year = {2015}, date = {2015-06-16}, journal = {Fragmenta Faunistica}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {51-58}, abstract = {Opiliofauna of open biotopes in the Poloniny National Park (NP) is presented. The biotopes include the variably utilized or successively overgrowing grasslands. During the period 2011–2013, we found 21 species of harvestmen which represent 60% of the Slovak opiliofauna. The highly eudominant species was Phalangium opilio. The open and sunny biotopes as meadows and pastures proved to be typical habitats for P. opilio and Oligolophus tridens. Other dominant species were: Trogulus nepaeformis and Lacinius ephippiatus. The Carpathian endemics: Paranemastoma kochi and Ischyropsalis manicata as well as thermophilic species Egaenus convexus, Lacinius horridus and Zachaeus crista were also found in the study sites.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Opiliofauna of open biotopes in the Poloniny National Park (NP) is presented. The biotopes include the variably utilized or successively overgrowing grasslands. During the period 2011–2013, we found 21 species of harvestmen which represent 60% of the Slovak opiliofauna. The highly eudominant species was Phalangium opilio. The open and sunny biotopes as meadows and pastures proved to be typical habitats for P. opilio and Oligolophus tridens. Other dominant species were: Trogulus nepaeformis and Lacinius ephippiatus. The Carpathian endemics: Paranemastoma kochi and Ischyropsalis manicata as well as thermophilic species Egaenus convexus, Lacinius horridus and Zachaeus crista were also found in the study sites. | |
Parák, M; Kulfan, J; Zach, P Are the moth larvae able to withstand tree fall caused by wind storm? Journal Article Annals of Forest Research, 58 (1), pp. 185-190, 2015. @article{Parák2015, title = {Are the moth larvae able to withstand tree fall caused by wind storm?}, author = {M. Parák and J. Kulfan and P. Zach}, url = {http://www.afrjournal.org/index.php/afr/article/view/346}, doi = {10.15287/afr.2015.346}, year = {2015}, date = {2015-03-18}, journal = {Annals of Forest Research}, volume = {58}, number = {1}, pages = {185-190}, abstract = {Wind storms play an important role in structuring European forests, however, the direct effects of strong wind on insects roosting in tree canopies are poorly known. In this study we assess the proportion of moth larvae which remain on Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) trees which have fallen during high winds. Next, we contribute to the knowledge of potential importance of such larvae in forests fragmented by local wind damage. We studied the effects of wind in spruce forest in the West Carpathians in March 2013. Branches were sampled from randomly chosen fallen and standing (undamaged) spruce trees in April 2013. Larvae or emerged moths were obtained from branches in the laboratory using photoeclectors. Assemblages of larvae were analysed at community level using several approaches. In total, 11 species of Lepidoptera were found on the branches, 10 of them overwinter as larvae and one as eggs. No differences were observed between abundance and species richness of larval assemblages on fallen and standing trees. Assemblages were very similar; there was no difference detected between standing and fallen trees. Overwintering larvae can successfully complete their development on wind-felled trees; hence, the emerged moths may contribute to greater infestation of standing spruce trees surviving wind disturbance.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Wind storms play an important role in structuring European forests, however, the direct effects of strong wind on insects roosting in tree canopies are poorly known. In this study we assess the proportion of moth larvae which remain on Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) trees which have fallen during high winds. Next, we contribute to the knowledge of potential importance of such larvae in forests fragmented by local wind damage. We studied the effects of wind in spruce forest in the West Carpathians in March 2013. Branches were sampled from randomly chosen fallen and standing (undamaged) spruce trees in April 2013. Larvae or emerged moths were obtained from branches in the laboratory using photoeclectors. Assemblages of larvae were analysed at community level using several approaches. In total, 11 species of Lepidoptera were found on the branches, 10 of them overwinter as larvae and one as eggs. No differences were observed between abundance and species richness of larval assemblages on fallen and standing trees. Assemblages were very similar; there was no difference detected between standing and fallen trees. Overwintering larvae can successfully complete their development on wind-felled trees; hence, the emerged moths may contribute to greater infestation of standing spruce trees surviving wind disturbance. | |
2014 |
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Panigaj, Ľ; Zach, P; Honěk, A; Nedvěd, O; Kulfan, J; Martinková, Z; Selyemová, D; Viglášová, S; Roy, H E Zookeys, 412 , pp. 89–112, 2014. @article{Ľ.2014, title = {The invasion history, distribution and colour pattern forms of the harlequin ladybird beetle \textit{Harmonia axyridis} (Pall.) (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae) in Slovakia, Central Europe}, author = {Ľ. Panigaj and P. Zach and A. Honěk and O. Nedvěd and J. Kulfan and Z. Martinková and D. Selyemová and S. Viglášová and H.E. Roy}, url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4042697/}, year = {2014}, date = {2014-05-29}, journal = {Zookeys}, volume = {412}, pages = {89–112}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } | |
2013 |
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Olšovský, T; Zach, P; Kulfan, J; Juríková-Matulová, Z Spatial occurrence and abundance of five phloeophagous beetle species (Coleoptera) in Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris) growing on sandy soils Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 40 (1), pp. 84-90, 2013, ISSN: 1336-5266. @article{Olšovský2013, title = {Spatial occurrence and abundance of five phloeophagous beetle species (Coleoptera) in Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris) growing on sandy soils}, author = {T. Olšovský and P. Zach and J. Kulfan and Z. Juríková-Matulová}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Olsovsky.pdf}, issn = {1336-5266}, year = {2013}, date = {2013-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {40}, number = {1}, pages = {84-90}, abstract = {Spatial occurrence and abundance of Ips sexdentatus, Phaenops cyanea, Pissodes piniphilus, Tomicus minor and Ips acuminatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Buprestidae) were examined in mature Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris) growing on poor sandy soils in Záhorská nížina lowland in western Slovakia, Central Europe. In the study area, the five given phloeophagous species are secondary pests of Scots pine spatially separated in pine trunks. Early in March 2006, each of them was recorded in 10 different Scots pine trees, in the lower, middle and upper parts (sections) of the trunks, each section being 4.0 m long. The study was made to clarify in more detail (1) as to whether and to which extent studied species occur in the middle trunks and (2) how their abundance (density) is differing among particular trunk sections of infested trees. All studied species were recorded in the middle trunk sections. However, the four of them, I. sexdentatus, P. piniphilus, T. minor and I. acuminatus, were less frequent here than in the other sections (lower or upper) they were preferring. Abundance of each species per 1,000 cm 2 significantly differed among the trunk sections (p < 0.001, Kruskal-Wallis anova ). Particular species avoided extreme situations, that is, species inhabiting the lower trunks (I. sexdentatus and P. cyanea) were not recorded in the upper trunks and those colonizing the upper trunks (P. piniphilus, T. minor, I. acuminatus) were not documented to be developing in the lower trunks. In each species, variability in abundance was greatest in most densely colonized (preferred) parts of the trunks. The results give the evidence that high number of individuals of studied species are developing in dying mature pine trees in a mixed oak-pine forest in Central Europe.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Spatial occurrence and abundance of Ips sexdentatus, Phaenops cyanea, Pissodes piniphilus, Tomicus minor and Ips acuminatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Buprestidae) were examined in mature Scots pine trees (Pinus sylvestris) growing on poor sandy soils in Záhorská nížina lowland in western Slovakia, Central Europe. In the study area, the five given phloeophagous species are secondary pests of Scots pine spatially separated in pine trunks. Early in March 2006, each of them was recorded in 10 different Scots pine trees, in the lower, middle and upper parts (sections) of the trunks, each section being 4.0 m long. The study was made to clarify in more detail (1) as to whether and to which extent studied species occur in the middle trunks and (2) how their abundance (density) is differing among particular trunk sections of infested trees. All studied species were recorded in the middle trunk sections. However, the four of them, I. sexdentatus, P. piniphilus, T. minor and I. acuminatus, were less frequent here than in the other sections (lower or upper) they were preferring. Abundance of each species per 1,000 cm 2 significantly differed among the trunk sections (p < 0.001, Kruskal-Wallis anova ). Particular species avoided extreme situations, that is, species inhabiting the lower trunks (I. sexdentatus and P. cyanea) were not recorded in the upper trunks and those colonizing the upper trunks (P. piniphilus, T. minor, I. acuminatus) were not documented to be developing in the lower trunks. In each species, variability in abundance was greatest in most densely colonized (preferred) parts of the trunks. The results give the evidence that high number of individuals of studied species are developing in dying mature pine trees in a mixed oak-pine forest in Central Europe. | |
2012 |
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Kulfan, J; Štrbová, E; Zach, P Effect of vegetation and management on occurrence of larvae and adults of generalist Maniola jurtina L. (Lepidoptera) in meadow habitat Journal Article Polish Journal of Ecology , 60 (3), pp. 601-609, 2012. @article{J.2012b, title = {Effect of vegetation and management on occurrence of larvae and adults of generalist \textit{Maniola jurtina} L. (Lepidoptera) in meadow habitat}, author = {J. Kulfan and E. Štrbová and P. Zach}, url = {http://www.miiz.waw.pl/pliki/article/ar60_3_16.pdf}, year = {2012}, date = {2012-10-12}, journal = {Polish Journal of Ecology }, volume = {60}, number = {3}, pages = {601-609}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } | |
2011 |
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Kulfan, J; Zach, P Successful overwintering of Lepidoptera larvae and eggs on spruce trees uprooted by the wind Journal Article Folia Oecologica, 38 (1), pp. 52-56, 2011, ISSN: 1336-5266. @article{Kulfan2011b, title = {Successful overwintering of Lepidoptera larvae and eggs on spruce trees uprooted by the wind}, author = {J. Kulfan and P. Zach}, url = {http://ife.sk/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/7.pdf}, issn = {1336-5266}, year = {2011}, date = {2011-01-01}, journal = {Folia Oecologica}, volume = {38}, number = {1}, pages = {52-56}, abstract = {Windstorm on November 19, 2004 seriously affected Norway spruce (Picea abies) forests in Tatra Mountains, Northern Slovakia. We studied as to whether moth larvae and eggs overwintered successfully on branches of uprooted spruce trees. Also, we evaluated differences in assemblage structure of overwintering developmental stages of moths between the upper and middle crown area of wind-felled spruce trees. In May 2005, we sampled branches from a total of 12 wind-felled trees in Tichá dolina valley in the altitudes between 1,020 and 1,050 m. From each tree, a total of 30 branches were collected from both its upper and middle crown area. In addition, a total of 400 cones were sampled from the wind-felled trees. Moth larvae or hatched adults were obtained from branches or cones through photoeclectors in the laboratory. Larvae of one species developing in cones (Cydia strobilella), 3 species of bud-borers (Argyresthia glabratella, A. amiantella, A. bergiella), 7 needle spinning species (Batrachedra pinicolella, Chionodes electella, Syndemis musculana, Dichelia histrionana, Pseudohermenias abietana, Epinotia tedella, E. nanana), one free living species (Thera variata) and one species feeding on lichens or algae (fam. Psychidae – Naryciinae, not identified) were recorded. The moth Zeiraphera griseana was the only species overwintering in the egg stage. Branches of uprooted spruce trees hosted all moth species common on living standing spruce trees in other mountain valleys of Tatra Mountains. Specimens of needle-spinning species overwintering in the larval stage were collected in significantly greater numbers on the upper crown than on the middle crown branches of the individual wind-felled trees (p < 0.05, Wilcoxon matched pairs test). In bud-borers, such significant differences were not found. The numbers of moth specimens belonging to the rest feeding groups were low. Successful development of all moth species overwintering on uprooted trees in the larval stage (13 species) was highly likely. Most larvae of Z. griseana emerging from eggs in spring, possibly, died because of the lack of opening buds and young needles on most fallen trees which were drying out gradually.}, keywords = {}, pubstate = {published}, tppubtype = {article} } Windstorm on November 19, 2004 seriously affected Norway spruce (Picea abies) forests in Tatra Mountains, Northern Slovakia. We studied as to whether moth larvae and eggs overwintered successfully on branches of uprooted spruce trees. Also, we evaluated differences in assemblage structure of overwintering developmental stages of moths between the upper and middle crown area of wind-felled spruce trees. In May 2005, we sampled branches from a total of 12 wind-felled trees in Tichá dolina valley in the altitudes between 1,020 and 1,050 m. From each tree, a total of 30 branches were collected from both its upper and middle crown area. In addition, a total of 400 cones were sampled from the wind-felled trees. Moth larvae or hatched adults were obtained from branches or cones through photoeclectors in the laboratory. Larvae of one species developing in cones (Cydia strobilella), 3 species of bud-borers (Argyresthia glabratella, A. amiantella, A. bergiella), 7 needle spinning species (Batrachedra pinicolella, Chionodes electella, Syndemis musculana, Dichelia histrionana, Pseudohermenias abietana, Epinotia tedella, E. nanana), one free living species (Thera variata) and one species feeding on lichens or algae (fam. Psychidae – Naryciinae, not identified) were recorded. The moth Zeiraphera griseana was the only species overwintering in the egg stage. Branches of uprooted spruce trees hosted all moth species common on living standing spruce trees in other mountain valleys of Tatra Mountains. Specimens of needle-spinning species overwintering in the larval stage were collected in significantly greater numbers on the upper crown than on the middle crown branches of the individual wind-felled trees (p < 0.05, Wilcoxon matched pairs test). In bud-borers, such significant differences were not found. The numbers of moth specimens belonging to the rest feeding groups were low. Successful development of all moth species overwintering on uprooted trees in the larval stage (13 species) was highly likely. Most larvae of Z. griseana emerging from eggs in spring, possibly, died because of the lack of opening buds and young needles on most fallen trees which were drying out gradually. | |