CerambycidaePrioninaePrioniniPrinobius

Prinobius

Giant Oak Borer
PrioninaePrionini EU Habitats
W. Palearctic spp.
2
European spp.
1
Body length
25–50 mm
Activity
Nocturnal
Flight season
Summer–Autumn
Overwinters as
larva
Larva type
MRTVE_TV
Biotope
forest-saproxylic
Overview

Prinobius

*Prinobius* Mulsant, 1842 is among the most impressive cerambycids of the western Palaearctic, with adults reaching 25–60 mm in length and a notably robust, flattened body of dark brown coloration. Strictly nocturnal and strongly macropterous, adults are capable fliers and are reliably attracted to UV light during their flight season (June–September). Larvae develop deep within the heartwood and root system of ancient *Quercus*, requiring three to four years to complete development. The genus is listed under the EU Habitats Directive Annex II and is assessed as Near Threatened, reflecting ongoing declines linked to the loss of old-growth oak stands across the western Mediterranean.

Seasonal activity

Flight season: Summer–Autumn

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Green = active months · Orange = peak

Host plants

Primary hosts: oak pine

OleaPinusPlatanusQuercus
⚑ Conservation note: Annex II

External resources

GBIF · Wikidata · Käfer der Welt

Field tip: Nocturnal, often large; attracted to light (UV lamp). Hosts: Olea.