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Ernobius abietis

Woodworm Ernobius abietis

Description

It is a very common species in Europe that develops in spruce cones. The adult is 2 to 4 mm in size, finely flattened, and yellowish-brown in color. Sometimes in May-June, the female lays eggs on spruce cones (under the scales).The larvae develop mainly inside the spruce cones and at the base of the scales. Fine sawdust, possibly also resin granules, scatters from the infected cones, and later, exit holes are visible. Some authors describe that it also damages the seeds of spruce inside the cones, so opinions on its harmfulness vary.In our opinion, as long as there is no massive overpopulation, its forestry significance as a seed pest is currently quite small. Significantly more important damage to spruce seeds is caused by the spruce seed moth Cydia strobinella.

Symptom

Exit holes and sawdust from the spruce cones.

Tree Species: Spruce

Part of a plant- attacked: Fruit / Seed

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No