Twig Pruner
Elaphidionoides villosus (Fabricius)
J. D. Solomon, F. I. McCracken, R. L. Anderson, R. Lewis, Jr., F.L. Oliveria, T.H. Filer, and P.J. Barry
Importance – The twig pruner occurs throughout the East. It prefers the oaks but also attacks other deciduous species. Larvae bore into the stems and cut off or prune twigs, terminals, and branches about .25 to 1 inch (6 to 25 mm) in diameter. Severe pruning adversely affects tree form and the aesthetic quality of ornamental plantings and creates clean-up problems.
Identifying the Insect – Larvae are cylindrical, white, and measure about .5 to .8 inch (12 to 21mm) long at maturity. Adult beetles are gray mottled.
Identifying the Injury – During the summer, fall, and winter, pruned twigs (with leaves attached) 12 to 40 inches (30 to 100 cm) long litter the ground under infested trees. The end of the severed twig presents a smoothly cut surface. Split the pruned twigs to reveal the larva.
Biology – Adults emerge during spring and deposit eggs in small twigs. The larva burrows down the center of the stem and severs the twig, which falls to the ground in late summer or fall. Pupation and adult emergence occur in the following spring. There is one generation per year.
Control – Collect and burn severed twigs during the fall and winter. Natural enemies help control the twig pruner. Insecticides are rarely needed
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