About Oak Bark Borer
A small bark beetle that attacks oaks across Europe. It breeds in weakened or recently dead branches and trunks.
Did You Know?
It is one of the few Scolytus species that specializes exclusively on oak rather than elm.
How to Identify Oak Bark Borer
Oak Bark Borer (Scolytus intricatus) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Curculionidae (Scolytinae). Adults typically measure 2.5–3.5 mm.
Oak Bark Borer Habitat
Oak Bark Borer is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Europe, North Africa, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Oak Bark Borer Diet and Feeding
Oak Bark Borer feeds on wood and bark, often boring into timber. Wood-feeding insects contribute to the decomposition of dead trees and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.
Where Is Oak Bark Borer Found?
Oak Bark Borer can be found in Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Oak Bark Borer can be found
Is Oak Bark Borer Dangerous?
Oak Bark Borer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Oak Bark Borer Role in Nature
Oak Bark Borer is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Oak Bark Borer
What does Oak Bark Borer look like?
The Oak Bark Borer typically measures 2.5–3.5 mm.
Where is Oak Bark Borer found?
The Oak Bark Borer is found in Europe, North Africa, Western Asia and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Oak Bark Borer eat?
The Oak Bark Borer feeds on wood and bark, often boring into timber.
Is Oak Bark Borer dangerous to humans?
The Oak Bark Borer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
Is Oak Bark Borer endangered?
The Oak Bark Borer is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Oak Bark Borer?
It is one of the few Scolytus species that specializes exclusively on oak rather than elm.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Oak Bark Borer (Scolytus intricatus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/oak-bark-borer
MLA:
"Oak Bark Borer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/oak-bark-borer.