bark beetle

noun

1. any of numerous small, cylindrical beetles of the family Scolytidae that nest under the bark of hardwood trees, leaving intricate tracings on the wood.

bark beetle

noun

1. any small beetle of the family Scolytidae , which bore tunnels in the bark and wood of trees, causing great damage. They are closely related to the weevils

Word History and Origins

Origin of bark beetle¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

Ever the stewards, just as they’d discussed with Frank on day one, the Martinezes have had three arborists treat the maples for bark beetles and bacteria in the soil.

From Los Angeles Times

For example, warming temperatures have enabled pests such as bark beetles to survive through the winter and expand their range, which has decimated Western forests.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite fewer damaged trees, Kohler said the increase in tree deaths due to bark beetles is a concerning trend.

From Seattle Times

Thousands of hectares of trees have already died due to drought and bark beetles.

From Science Daily

Sequoias need fire to reproduce, but the supercharged blazes of recent years have become lethal to the trees already weakened by drought and bark beetles.

From Los Angeles Times