Among the main pests that threaten eucalyptus plantations are leaf-cutting ants. According to Embrapa Florestas, they are considered the main problem for eucalyptus forests in Brazil, especially ants (Atta spp.) and quenquéns (Acromyrmex spp.). Defoliation caused by ants can reduce wood production in the following year by a third and, if this occurs in the 1st year of planting, the total loss can reach 13% at the end of the harvest cycle.

Termites; defoliating caterpillars; insects of the order Lepidoptera, which in their larval stage feed on leaves; defoliator beetles; coleobrocas, which are boring insects; and sap-sucking insects such as psyllids, leafhoppers, thrips, and aphids are also significant threats.

In Mato Grosso do Sul, a team made up of 43 state agricultural inspectors and operational agents from the State Agency for Animal and Vegetal Sanitary Defense (Iagro), received training in March on phytosanitary updates on the main eucalyptus pests. The content was taught by Prof. doctor Carlos Frederico Wilcken, from UNESP in Botucatu. The purpose of the training was to initiate monitoring actions for pests associated with planted forests, focusing on the caterpillar complex and other pests.

Photo: Dalva Luiz de Queiroz/Embrapa Florestas