Great oak longhorn beetle

Systematic position: The Great oak longhorn beetle (Hoplocerambyx spinicornis) belongs to the order Coleoptera and the family Cerambycidae. It is recognized as a primary wood-boring pest that poses a significant threat to deciduous forest ecosystems across its distribution range.

Host plants: This insect primarily infests various species of oak (Quercus). Under favorable environmental conditions or in instances of host tree stress, it may also attack other hardwoods such as beech and chestnut, although oak remains its preferred host for reproduction and larval development.

Biology and lifecycle: The lifecycle of this beetle spans 2 to 3 years. Adult beetles are active during the summer months. After mating, females deposit eggs into bark crevices. The larvae bore into the sapwood and heartwood, creating extensive tunnels that compromise the internal structure and health of the tree.

Damage and economic impact: The larvae cause severe damage by feeding on the wood, which disrupts nutrient transport and reduces the tree's structural integrity. Infested trees eventually dry out and die. In forest management, the economic impact is substantial due to timber quality degradation and total stand loss.

• Removal and destruction of infested timber during sanitary thinning;
• Installation of trap trees to attract and collect adults;
• Implementation of pheromone-based monitoring programs;
• Silvicultural practices to promote overall forest health and vigor;
• Chemical treatment of the bark on high-value specimen trees.