Observations on the ecology and epidemiology of Xyleborus destruens Bldf., the near-primary borer in teak plantations in Java

While looking for a suitable plot for girth-increment investigations in a thriving 8-year old teak plantation near Batang, Central Java, in June 1918, officers of the Forest Research Institute discovered an unknown, rather conspicuous borer infestation of the trunks. The borer, recognized to be a Xyleborus species of 4 mm size, had attacked trunks showing still open Cossid holes and other very local wounds, but also several apparently perfectly sound trees. The wood was riddled with the tunnels which had resulted in severe technical damage. The present author made further field observations during three short visits, September 1918-July 1919, in order to collect data on the extent of the injury, the habits of the borer and the course of the infestation.