Conifer-specialist
Guides
Treptoplatypus
Treptoplatypus is a genus of ambrosia beetles (pinhole borers) in the family Curculionidae, subfamily Platypodinae. The genus comprises more than 20 described species, including the rare European species T. oxyurus, which forms obligate nutritional symbioses with ambrosia fungi cultivated within wood galleries. Members of this genus are wood-boring insects that colonize dead or dying trees, with some species showing specialized host associations.
Trichocnemis spiculatus
Spined Woodborer, Pine Sawyer, Western Pine Sawyer, Ponderosa Pine Borer
Trichocnemis spiculatus is a large wood-boring beetle in the family Cerambycidae, native to western North America. It is notable as the largest wood-boring beetle species in Colorado and has served as inspiration for technological innovation—its opposable mandibles inspired the design of modern chainsaw chains with alternating right and left cutting teeth. The species develops in dead and dying conifers, primarily ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, with a multi-year life cycle. Larvae create extensive tunnel systems through sapwood and heartwood.