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Brachonyx pineti

Needle weevil Brachonyx pineti

Description

Brachonyx pineti, commonly known as the pine needle weevil, is a small beetle species, measuring between 2.0 to 2.5 mm. It primarily feeds on pine species, particularly Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), Mountain pine (Pinus mugo), and Black pine (Pinus nigra). After overwintering in the forest litter, females lay eggs in young, swelling pine buds. The larvae mine inside the needles, creating winding corridors filled with dispersed brown frass. This results in needle swelling and stunted growth. The larvae pupate in the needle sheath, and the mined needles often turn brown, fail to grow fully, and may fall off. The weevil is distributed across Europe, where it is typically found on weakened or stressed pine trees.

Symptom

Infestations by Brachonyx pineti are marked by small round holes in the needles, brown discoloration, stunted growth, and needle drop, especially in young pine trees.

Tree Species: Pine

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes