Western Sculptured Pine Borer
Chalcophora angulicollis
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Buprestoidea
- Family: Buprestidae
- Subfamily: Chrysochroinae
- Tribe: Chrysochroini
- Genus: Chalcophora
- Species: angulicollis
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chalcophora angulicollis: /ˌkælkəˈfɔːrə ˌæŋɡjʊliˈkɒlɪs/
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Summary
Chalcophora angulicollis, or the western sculptured pine borer, is a species of metallic wood-boring beetle known for its distinctive dark shell and iridescent coloration. It primarily inhabits coniferous forests and has a lifecycle involving the deposition of eggs on the bark of conifers, where larvae develop.
Physical Characteristics
20-33 mm in length, dark brown to black with sculptures on upper side, iridescent bronze luster especially on underside.
Identification Tips
Distinctive angle-necked appearance; they fly noisily when alarmed.
Habitat
Found in various coniferous forests predominantly in western North America.
Distribution
Western North America, specifically from British Columbia to Nebraska and down to New Mexico.
Diet
Adults feed on leaves of various conifers, primarily from the Pinaceae family.
Life Cycle
Eggs are laid on the bark of large branches or trunks of conifers, especially on fir (Abies) and Pinus ponderosa.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs on the bark of suitable conifer trees; development occurs within the tree.
Ecosystem Role
As a wood-boring beetle, they play a role in the decomposition and nutrient cycling of forest ecosystems.
Tags
- Chalcophora angulicollis
- western sculptured pine borer
- Buprestidae
- wood-boring beetle
- insects