Relationship between Cerambyciid borer (Insecta: Coleoptera) infestation and human-induced biotic interferences causing mortality of kharsu (Quercus semecarpifolia Smith in Rees) oak trees in Garhwal, Western Himalaya, India.

Stem and wood boring beetles significantly damage kharsu oak trees leading to their mortality and decline in the Garhwal region of Western Himalaya, India. The relationship established between the prevalent biotic factors (extensive lopping and grazing) and the degree of borer infestation in Chakrata hills, Uttarakhand, revealed a strong correlation between the two. Density-girth class relationship in borer-infested oak stands revealed a higher degree of past disturbance compared to uninfested oak stands, with maximum infestation in girth class 61-80 cm and between 2601 and 2700 msl. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]