Dataset on natural enemy assemblages associated with Ips acuminatus in endemic and post-outbreak Scots pine populations in Latvia

This dataset contains data underlying a study of natural enemy assemblages associated with the sharp-toothed bark beetle, Ips acuminatus, in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests in Latvia. Two study areas representing contrasting I. acuminatus population phases were investigated: an endemic population in Pieriga, central Latvia, and a post-outbreak population in the Stikli Nature Reserve, northwestern Latvia. Scots pine stem sections colonized by I. acuminatus were collected in 2022 and maintained in emergence traps under controlled laboratory conditions. Emerging insects were collected and identified. The dataset contains information on sampled trees and individual 1-m stem sections, including study area, population phase, tree and section identifiers, section diameter, insect taxon, number of individuals. Variables required to calculate insect emergence density per unit of bark surface area are also provided. The data support analyses of natural enemy community composition and diversity, emergence patterns, and relationships between I. acuminatus density and natural enemy abundance. The accompanying metadata sheet provide descriptions of the dataset structure, variables, units, and calculations.