Sequencing of the intestinal tract and galleries of the insect Conophthorus coniperda

Our study aims to assess whether the number of insect tracts included in composite samples before DNA extraction, as well as the number of trees sampled, influence the variability in microbiome profile recovery. Ensuring robust and consistent findings across diverse populations and environments will enable researchers to develop more effective management and control strategies, thereby potentially reducing the beetle's impact on pine forests.