What is instep borer?

Instep borer, also known as the apple tree borer or peach tree borer, is a type of wood-boring insect that feeds on the inner layer of bark and wood of fruit trees, especially apple and peach trees. The adult borer is a metallic blue-black beetle that lays its eggs on the trunk of fruit trees. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae bore into the tree bark and wood, causing damage to the tree's vascular system and weakening its overall structure. Infested trees may show signs of wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth, and may eventually die if left untreated. Control methods include regular monitoring, using insecticide sprays or traps, and removing infested wood.