Wood-boring Larvae!?

[Trebor]

Hi I previously had some black sappy spots on the trunk of my coastal redwood. I sprayed with neem oil the last couple weeks but then noticed what my best guess is some sort of boring larvae. Can anyone help confirm or have better ideas? I poked it with a needle and it didn't move and it was dried out feeling. Appreciate any info I can get and advice on how to treat!

 

[Tidal Bonsai]

It could be borers, hard to tell from the pictures. To my knowledge identification and removal is the best medicine. I would clean out the areas of anything you can find and cover with cut paste/epoxy so no further damage is done.

 

[cbroad]

@Trebor
I've seen similar vertical gashes on trunks and branches, and was told they could be damage from cicadas laying their eggs in there.

Not positive that's your issue but might warrant some research.

Good luck!

 

[iant]

I had a borer once in a pine, and I was able to follow it along it's tract by probing a hole where sap was oozing. The bark lifted a little and revealed a shallow tunnel that I followed until I found the little bugger. So I'd recommend removal if that's what it is. You should be able to probe a hole if it's a borer.
Ian

 

[Leo in N E Illinois]

If you have borers, a systemic insecticide is appropriate. Hit your local nursery or search mail order. Be sure to read labels. Label must say "borers" for target insects. If "borers" are not listed on the label, do not assume the product will work. Also read safety precautions. It is critical you read the labels before you buy.

 

[Trebor]

Thanks, all. I appreciate the feedback/info.

 

[Firstflush]

Did you probe the green thing that looks like a larva enlarged in the second photo?

 

[Trebor]

Did you probe the green thing that looks like a larva enlarged in the second photo?

I did, it didn't feel alive or move, but after stabbing it a bunch yesterday it is no longer green. I followed the path down the truck and scraped out as much of the nonsense looking stuff as i could. Sprayed it with an insecticide and will cross my fingers. Once it appears there are no more alien looking things in the tree i think i'll put on the cut paste. Of course I welcome any ideas!

 

[Firstflush]

Did you see any frass in what we believe to be a boring tunnel?
Hope its not some crazy canker.