Types

• Black turpentine beetles are large brown or black beetles that measure 5/16 to 3/8 inches in length. Most often seen in southern states, such as Virginia, Texas and Florida, this beetle primarily attacks pine trees, with slash pine and loblolly pine being favored hosts. Black turpentine beetle larva are white legless grubs that reach 1/2 inches in length. Both the adult form and the larval form cause significant damage to host trees. Ground beetles are also large black beetles. These beetles live outdoors underneath plant debris and stones, feeding on damaging insects. Ground beetles are usually shiny and black but can be tan, brown or green and can measure up to 3 inches in length.
  
  

Effects

• Black turpentine beetles most often attack trees that are damaged or under stress. Resin in freshly cut tree stumps attracts the beetle, which bores entrance holes into the bark of the tree. Most pine trees are damaged from the ground up to 6 feet. Chewing tunnels in the wood, black turpentine beetles lay eggs in galleries inside tree bark. After hatching, the larvae feed together for five to seven weeks, causing extensive damage to the internal wood. Most black turpentine beetles have two or three generations each year and live for up to four months. Ground beetles feed on damaging insects, keeping them under control. Homeowners are often dismayed to find ground beetles indoors, since they tend to be accidental invaders. These beetles do not bite, sting or feed on clothing but can become a nuisance in large colonies.
  
  

Cultural Control

• Keeping pine trees healthy is the most important aspect of controlling black turpentine beetles. If a few beetles are found, you can remove them by hand and place them into a bucket of soapy water to drown. Inspect your trees on a regular basis for signs of infestation, since egg laying causes serious damage to the internal wood of the host tree. If your tree has wounds that may attract beetles, use a standard tree paint to seal them. Ground beetles are not harmful, but homeowners who wish to remove them from their home can sweep them out the door or vacuum them up. Inspect your windows and doors for easy access and caulk them to reduce ground-beetle infestations.
  
  

Chemical Control

• Black turpentine beetles can cause extensive damage to pine trees, so if beetles are found, chemical control products may be necessary to avoid further damage. Spraying the trunks of trees with insecticides such as bifenthrin or permethrin may help prevent further infestation. If ground beetles are sneaking into your home, a protective barrier treatment placed around doors and other points of entry may help reduce infestation.