SKOG202 Significance of Insects and Fungi in Production Forests

We address current challenges for forest health, with emphasis on the importance of insects and fungi in production forests. In addition, we describe the importance of insects and fungi for forest biodiversity and important ecosystem services.

Key topics in the course are:

• how climate change affects insects and pathogenic fungi
• invasive species and the economic and ecological damage they cause
• integrated and biological control of pests, including the importance of the trees' own defence
• the most important pests in the various stand and life phases of the production forest (from seed production to wood products)
• the biological diversity of insects and fungi, including the importance of mycorrhizal fungi

A candidate who has completed the course shall have learned the following:

Knowledge: The student should have knowledge of the problems created by fungal diseases and insects at different stages of the production forest (from seed supply and rejuvenation to mature forest and timber products) and about integrated pest control. Furthermore, the student should know how climate change, invasive species and biodiversity affect the health of the production forest.

Skills: The student should be able to apply knowledge of fungi and insects to assess management measures against important pests. The student should also be able to assess the significance of climate change, biodiversity and alien species for the health condition of Norwegian production forests.

General competence: The student should be able to apply knowledge about the importance of insects and fungi in a comprehensive management of production forests, also in light of new problems caused by climate change and invasive species.