Which of the following is a common pest found in forests?

Bark beetles are indeed a common pest found in forests. These insects are known for their ability to infest and damage trees by boring into the bark, which can disrupt the tree's nutrient flow and ultimately lead to its decline or death. They are particularly notorious for their impact on coniferous forests, where an outbreak can result in significant tree mortality, affecting not only the trees themselves but also the entire ecosystem that relies on them.

In contrast, ladybugs primarily feed on aphids and other small insects, making them beneficial for natural pest control rather than pests themselves. Honeybees are important pollinators and generally contribute positively to forest ecosystems by aiding in the reproduction of flowering plants. Dragonflies are predatory insects that primarily feed on mosquitoes and other small insects, playing a beneficial role in controlling insect populations within their habitats.

Understanding the role of bark beetles helps forest workers recognize the importance of monitoring pest populations to maintain forest health and manage infestations effectively.