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Hylurgus ligniperda

Red-haired bark beetle

Description

Hylurgus ligniperda, known as the red-haired bark beetle, is a small bark beetle that typically targets weakened trees, freshly cut logs, broken trees and stumps. This species has a wide host range, including various conifers such as pines (Pinus species), spruces (Picea), firs (Abies), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga), and larch (Larix). Originally native to Europe, this beetle has spread globally, establishing populations in countries like South Africa, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile, driven largely by increased trade in conifer logs. The adult beetles, about 6 mm long, are dark with reddish hairs, particularly noticeable on the elytra. The beetles bore into the bark, where females create long egg galleries in the phloem. Larvae emerge, tunneling randomly beneath the bark, causing disruption to nutrient flow. While generally not lethal, these beetles can weaken trees, especially when combined with fungi like Leptographium spp., which they may vector, leading to potential decline in stressed trees.

Symptom

Yellowing or browning needles, resin exudation at entry points, galleries and random tunneling under the bark may indicate infestation.

Tree Species: Pine, Douglas Fir, Fir, Spruce, Larch

Part of a plant- attacked: Tree trunk

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes