Pruning slash drives ambrosia beetle (Curculionidae: Scolytinae, Platypodinae) activity in <i>Khaya grandifoliola</i> C.DC.: Slash removal as a preventive management strategy

Abstract This study evaluated pruning practices and slash management on ambrosia beetle attacks in a Khaya grandifoliola C. DC. plantation in São Roque de Minas, Brazil (March–May 2018). Three treatments comprised of non‐pruned controls, pruned trees with slash removal and pruned trees with slash retention; attack intensity on standing trees was assessed via weekly visual inspections counting holes—evidence of beetle boring into trunks—with frass or gum. Slash retention significantly increased beetle activity, likely by providing breeding substrate that may contribute to local population build‐up and subsequent colonization of nearby trees. No attacks occurred in slash‐removal plot, confirming residue removal prevents ambrosia beetle attacks. Attacked trees exuded gum, demonstrating K. grandifoliola 's effective defence that killed pioneer beetles. Prompt slash removal constitutes essential integrated pest management for sustainable African mahogany plantations.