The composition of organisms in the stand, the species of trees and the age of the trees in the stand are all factors that might make one forested area more susceptible than another to invasion by insect pests. In addition, whether or not the stand consists of a monocultural plantation or a natural mixed-wood environment can make a difference to infestation rates. A number of insect sampling methods were suggested in response to this question. Defoliation as well as damage to tree trunks, shoots, roots, cones, and seeds were among the most obvious short-term effects that would be seen in an infected forested area.
Extreme infestation can lead to the death of individual or groups of trees completely.
Selectively affecting certain tree species can and will change the composition of species within the stand, affecting wildlife and herbaceous plants within the affected forest. A lack of political will as well as a lack of social interest has slowed efforts to control insect invasion. Many exotic insect species have cyclic infestation rates. The lack of communication between countries and even scientific communities further exacterbates this problem. Further, in some areas it is less easy to determine a finite monetary value of damage to trees.