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Bark Beetles Use Tree Defenses Against Fungal Threats

1/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A new study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences examines interactions among bark beetles, spruce trees, and the fungus Beauveria bassiana.
Bark beetles shield themselves from fungal infections by converting the trees' antibiotic compounds into stronger defenses.
Beauveria bassiana can still infect and kill some beetle populations.
Researchers say understanding these interactions could yield organic pest control solutions by identifying fungal strains that naturally kill beetles.

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Story summary

A new study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences examines interactions among bark beetles, spruce trees, and the fungus Beauveria bassiana.
Bark beetles shield themselves from fungal infections by converting the trees' antibiotic compounds into stronger defenses.
Beauveria bassiana can still infect and kill some beetle populations.
Researchers say understanding these interactions could yield organic pest control solutions by identifying fungal strains that naturally kill beetles.