Hosts
There are several species of needle miners. Spruce needle miner (Endothenia albolineana) attacks most types of spruces.
Spruce Needle Miner
Pathogen Type
Scientific Name
Endothenia albolineana
Frequency
2
Severity
3
Symptoms
Bundles of brown, dead needles tied to the twig are obvious on close examination. High infestations can cause noticeably thin foliage.
Cycle
Eggs are laid like shingles on the spruce needles. After hatching, the larva enters the base of the needle, hollowing it out. The larvae cut the needles off after completely mining them. Dense mats of silk threads hold the dead needles on the twig. Larvae feed on one needle after another untill fall. At this time, the larvae overwinter inside a needle. They emerge in the spring and feed till they pupate
Management
If necessary, apply an insecticide in early spring.
Credit
James E. Schuster, retired Extension Specialist, Horticulture & Plant Pathology and Dr. Philip L. Nixon, Extension Entomologist, Crop Science Dept. University of Illinois
PathogenID
65