Effects of tree condition on oviposition behavior of Sirex nigricornis F. (Hymenoptera: Siricidae)

To examine the effects of tree condition on oviposition behavior of Sirex nigricornis F. (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) trees were felled and adult female S. nigricornis were exposed to three bolts; each of a different moisture content (low, medium and high respectively). Females were allowed to oviposit until death at which point they were removed and drill holes per bolt were counted. Variance to mean ratio was plotted against density of drill holes per bolt and the aggregation patterns were compared to those measured for untreated bolts. The effects of resin pressure and moisture content on oviposition behavior of Arkansas Sirex will be discussed.