The German name comes from the larvae of the beetle (see picture below), whose supervision is similar to Arabic characters. Each wing cap is occupied at the edge of the crash with four teeth, so a total of eight, hence the also common second name.
General Info About European spruce bark beetle
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Attributes of European spruce bark beetle
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
tree
Adult Food Sources
Inner bark of spruce trees, phloem and cambium of coniferous trees, fungi associated with tree wounds
Larva Food Source
Phloem tissue of coniferous trees, inner bark of spruce trees, cambium layer around spruce wounds
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The European spruce bark beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
The European spruce bark beetle can bore into the wood and may damage its structure, or even harm the health of trees. Stay alert if you frequently observe it in your house.
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The European spruce bark beetle feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of European spruce bark beetle
It is found from Europe to Asia Minor and some parts of Africa.
Distribution Area of European spruce bark beetle
Europe, Asia Minor, Africa
Appearance of European spruce bark beetle
Adults are usually 4 - 6 mm long, cylindrical and robust, black or brownish-black. Elytral declivity is slightly shiny, with 4 teeth on each margin side. The third tooth is the biggest and club like on its top. The egg is yellowish-white. The larva is white and legless. The pupa is also white.
Egg The egg stage initiates the life cycle of european spruce bark beetle. The eggs are usually laid in concealed locations on the host plants. During this time, the embryo inside develops, preparing for the hatching of larvae. The eggs are small and seldom seen.
Larva European spruce bark beetle undergoes a series of molts as larvae, eating voraciously and growing quickly. They lack developed wings and bear little resemblance to adults. Color is often subdued, and the main function is to store nutrients for the following pupal stage.
Pupal In the pupal stage, european spruce bark beetle is encased in a protective cocoon or chamber. At this time, european spruce bark beetle undergoes significant transformation, reorganizing bodily structures. Color and shape are variable but will transition toward those of the adult.
Adult European spruce bark beetle emerges with fully formed legs, wings, antennae, and reproductive parts. Color is definitive and can be strikingly different from previous stages. Adults are mobile and primarily focused on mating and laying eggs to perpetuate the species.
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Youth Habitat of European spruce bark beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
Adult Habitat of European spruce bark beetle
Forests and Woodlands
How Can You Attract European spruce bark beetle
European spruce bark beetle is attracted to the scent of fresh tree sap and the pheromones released by other individuals of its species, which are used in traps as bait.
Habitat Preferences of European spruce bark beetle Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of european spruce bark beetle are laid in the crevices of the bark of various species of spruce trees. Larvae development typically occurs in the phloem layer between the bark and wood, where they produce a series of galleries. Pupation occurs within these galleries or nearby regions in the inner bark. Adults, after emergence, are generally found on or near host trees, particularly on the bark or around the lower trunk and root collar when initiating a new attack. To look for these stages, one would examine the bark, investigate the galleries, and search the base of the trees for signs of adult infestation.
When is the Best Time to Observe European spruce bark beetle
The best time to find adult european spruce bark beetle is during warm, dry conditions when they are most active and looking to colonize new host trees.
What is the Best Weather to Observe European spruce bark beetle
Dry and warm weather with little to no wind is ideal for finding european spruce bark beetle, as these conditions are conducive to their flight and bark penetration for laying eggs.
How and Where Can You Find European spruce bark beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Larvae of european spruce bark beetle are typically found beneath the bark of infested trees. To find them, locate trees with signs of infestation such as sawdust-like frass or distinctive tunnel patterns under the bark.
Pupal European spruce bark beetle pupates within the wooden galleries created by the larvae. Exploration of these galleries in infested trees, often performed by peeling back the bark, can reveal the presence of pupae.
Adult Adult european spruce bark beetle can be found on the trunks of host trees or in flight during warm, dry weather. Use pheromone traps or visually inspect tree trunks for signs of beetles, such as entrance holes or pitch tubes.
Are European spruce bark beetle harmful?
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Harmful Effects of European spruce bark beetle
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Forestry Pest
The european spruce bark beetle, a significant forestry pest, targets coniferous trees. Adults and larvae bore into the stems, disrupting sap flow and weakening the trees. A severe infestation can lead to tree death, affecting forest health and economically important lumber industries.
Agricultural Pests
Adults of european spruce bark beetle bore into the stems of various trees, weakening the tree structure. Initial damage might be mild, but severe infestations can lead to the death of the tree. These pests can have severe economic impacts on forestry, potentially affecting related human industries.