About Steel-blue Woodwasp
A metallic blue woodwasp native to Europe that breeds in fir and spruce. It is closely related to the more destructive Sirex noctilio.
Did You Know?
Unlike its relative Sirex noctilio, this species rarely causes significant economic damage to forestry.
How to Identify Steel-blue Woodwasp
Steel-blue Woodwasp (Sirex cyaneus) belongs to the order Hymenoptera, family Siricidae. Adults typically measure 12–28 mm.
Steel-blue Woodwasp Habitat
Steel-blue Woodwasp is found in mountains habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Steel-blue Woodwasp Diet and Feeding
Steel-blue Woodwasp 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 Steel-blue Woodwasp Found?
Steel-blue Woodwasp can be found in Europe, where it inhabits mountains environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Steel-blue Woodwasp can be found
Is Steel-blue Woodwasp Dangerous?
Steel-blue Woodwasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes many stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled. Stings can cause pain and swelling, and in rare cases may trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Steel-blue Woodwasp Role in Nature
Steel-blue Woodwasp 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 Steel-blue Woodwasp
What does Steel-blue Woodwasp look like?
The Steel-blue Woodwasp typically measures 12–28 mm.
Where is Steel-blue Woodwasp found?
The Steel-blue Woodwasp is found in Europe and typically inhabits mountains environments.
What does Steel-blue Woodwasp eat?
The Steel-blue Woodwasp feeds on wood and bark, often boring into timber.
Is Steel-blue Woodwasp dangerous to humans?
The Steel-blue Woodwasp belongs to the order Hymenoptera, which includes stinging insects. While not typically aggressive, it may sting if threatened or handled.
Is Steel-blue Woodwasp endangered?
The Steel-blue Woodwasp 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 Steel-blue Woodwasp?
Unlike its relative Sirex noctilio, this species rarely causes significant economic damage to forestry.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Steel-blue Woodwasp (Sirex cyaneus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/steel-blue-woodwasp
MLA:
"Steel-blue Woodwasp." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/steel-blue-woodwasp.