The effect of insect association on the productivity of some forest trees in Sudan

Abstract

The effect of insect association on productivity of selected forest tree species in Sudan was investigated. The selected trees were Acacia senegal subsp. Senegal (Hashab), Butyrospermum paradoxum (Shea tree), Faidherbia albida (Haraz), Moringa oleifera (Moringa), Prosopis chilensis (Mesquites) and Salvadora persica (Arak, Tooth brush tree). The biology, distribution in Sudan and the economic importance of these selected tree species were reviewed. The insect species associated with the tree and their seeds were identified and their effects were summarized. Beneficial effects were reported for A. Senegal trees and specially on gum production. Other insects associated with other trees showed deleterious effect on the trees and their organs (leaves, seeds, and wood ete). The insects involved were: Agrilus nubeculosus (Fairm) in A. Senegal, Cirina butyrospermi, Anacridium moestum var. Melanorhodon, Ceratitis silvestrii, Pachmerus longus, Sinoxylon Senegal ense, caterpillars and locusts for Faidherbia albida, Eupterate mallifera for Moringa oleifera, Rhipibruchus allults and Crematogaster sp. For Prosopis chilensis and Lepidoptera colotis ephiae and Eriophyes for Salvadora persica. The effect of each insect on the tree and its organs is summarized.