What is a common result of Southern Pine Beetle infestations?

The common result of Southern Pine Beetle infestations is indeed the blockage of water transport within the tree. When these beetles infest a pine tree, they burrow into the bark and disrupt the vascular system, which is responsible for transporting water and nutrients throughout the tree. This damage can lead to wilting, yellowing of the needles, and ultimately the death of the tree. The disruption occurs as the beetles not only feed on the tree but also introduce pathogens, such as fungi, that can further compromise the tree's ability to function properly.

In contrast, the other options do not represent outcomes of such infestations. For instance, promotion of tree growth would be contrary to the effects of an infestation, as infested trees typically weaken and decline rather than thrive. The formation of healthy soil also does not occur as a direct result of beetle activity, since dead or dying trees do not contribute positively to soil health immediately. Lastly, while some beneficial insects may be attracted to the signs of tree decline, this is not a primary result of the Southern Pine Beetle infestation itself; rather, it's an indirect consequence of the altered ecosystem dynamics following the beetle attack.