The Southern Pine Beetle is a small insect native to the southeastern United States. It primarily infests various species of pine trees, including Loblolly Pine and Longleaf Pine. The beetle bores into the bark, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients, which can lead to tree death. This beetle is a significant pest in forest ecosystems, especially during outbreaks when populations surge. Factors such as drought and tree stress can increase susceptibility to infestations. Effective management strategies include monitoring tree health and implementing controlled logging practices to reduce beetle populations.