Cylindrical bark beetles

Definition

A subfamily of beetles (Colydiinae, order Coleoptera) characterized by elongated, cylindrical bodies and association with dead or dying wood. Formerly treated as the separate family Colydiidae, these beetles are now classified within Zopheridae, where they comprise the majority of the family's diversity. The group includes approximately 140 genera worldwide, with notable radiations in the Australian region and more limited representation in Europe.

Etymology

From Latin cylindrus (cylinder, roller) + bark (tree outer layer) + beetle; referring to body shape and habitat.

Example

Colydiinae such as the genus Ablabesmyia are frequently encountered in forest entomology surveys of decaying hardwoods, where both adults and larvae contribute to wood decomposition.

Synonyms

• Colydiinae

Related Terms

• Zopheridae
• Bark beetles
• Saproxylic beetles
• Coleoptera
• subfamily
• Wood-boring beetles

Usage Notes

The common name refers specifically to the subfamily Colydiinae, not to all bark beetles (which include diverse lineages such as Scolytinae). The cylindrical body form distinguishes them from the more compact, often globular zopherid beetles in other subfamilies. Specialists may still encounter 'Colydiidae' in older literature referring to the same group.