Advances in the knowledge of Eucalyptus gall insects in Uruguay: current status and future prospects.

Uruguay has 1 million ha forested with exotic species, and 75% of this area is in Eucalyptus plantations. A national silvicultural practice characterized by large-scale plantations with monocultural stands makes it mandatory to carry out phytosanitary surveillance to prevent the entrance of new pests. A signifi cant increase in insect invasions on Eucalyptus production areas has been observed in recent years. Gall-forming insects cause concern because of the risk they pose to young plantations.