Ernobius mollis

Pine bark anobiid Ernobius mollis is a beetle species associated exclusively with coniferous trees. It develops mainly in dead or recently felled wood with preserved bark, especially on pines (Pinus spp.), spruces (Picea spp.) and firs (Abies spp.). Females lay eggs into bark crevices, and larvae subsequently penetrate the growth layer beneath the bark. Larval development takes place partly in the inner bark and partly in the outer sapwood, where shallow feeding galleries are formed. The species has one generation per year. It usually colonises dead wood or construction timber containing bark edges and does not attack living trees. The intensity of attack is usually not strong and the damage is mostly superficial, therefore it does not significantly affect the mechanical properties of wood. However, the presence of numerous exit holes can negatively influence the aesthetic appearance of wooden elements. The species is widespread across Europe and is common wherever coniferous timber with bark remnants is present.