« Back

Mesosa curculionoides

Long-horned beetle Mesosa curculionoides

Description

Mesosa curculionoides is a saproxylic longhorn beetle whose larvae develop in dead wood or thick branches of deciduous trees such as oak, hornbeam, walnut, lime, hazel, or elm. Occasionally, it can also colonize weakened or stressed trees, especially those with bark damage or signs of decline. This mostly occurs in localities that are particularly favorable to the species, where increased population density may result in higher aggressiveness. However, its role as a pest is minimal or questionable in most areas where it occurs. The larvae feed subcortically, creating irregular galleries and sometimes penetrating shallowly into the sapwood. The life cycle takes 2–3 years. Adults appear from May to August and are active during twilight. Infestation levels are usually low, but in some cases, the species may accelerate wood degradation or affect tree aesthetics. It is widely distributed in Europe, especially in warmer areas.

Symptom

Irregular galleries under the bark, exit holes, and peeling or cracked bark on weakened branches or trunks.

Tree Species: Elm, Oak, Hornbeam, Hazel, Lime, Walnut

Part of a plant- attacked: Tree trunk, Branch

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes