Sal borer Hoplocerambyx spinicornis newman: A devastating forest insect pest in India

The sal heartwood borer or sal borer, Hoplocerambyx spinicornis Newman is the most devastating insect pest of Shorea robusta. It is not only due to the incidence and intensity of the pest but also due to the ecological and economic losses it causes due to periodically repeated outbreaks or epidemics of this pest in sal dominating areas. Complex life cycle and related problems further makes its management tough. The chapter discusses various aspects of this pest along with possible management options including researches being undertaken on sal heartwood borer.