Flatheaded Conifer Borer

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dicerca tenebrosa: /daɪˈsɜːrkə tɛnɪˈbroʊsə/

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Summary

Dicerca tenebrosa, commonly known as the flatheaded conifer borer, is a metallic wood-boring beetle known for its impact on conifer trees in North America and is characterized by its flattened head and metallic body.

Physical Characteristics

The flatheaded conifer borer has a metallic coloration with a flattened head and elongated body, typical of the Buprestidae family.

Identification Tips

Look for a flat, elongated body and metallic sheen, along with a distinctly flattened head.

Habitat

This species inhabits coniferous forests in North America, typically around healthy and weakened trees.

Distribution

Dicerca tenebrosa is found throughout North America, particularly in regions with conifer forests.

Diet

Larvae of Dicerca tenebrosa mainly feed on the wood of coniferous trees.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes the egg stage, larval stage, pupal stage, and adult stage, with larvae developing within the wood of trees.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs on or near the host trees, and the larvae burrow into the wood upon hatching.

Ecosystem Role

As a wood-boring beetle, it plays a role in decomposition and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.

Economic Impact

May cause damage to coniferous timber, affecting forestry and lumber industries.

Collecting Methods

• Visual search on conifer trees
• Bark peeling to reveal larvae

Preservation Methods

• Drying specimens
• Ethanol preservation

Similar Taxa

• Buprestidae
• Chrysochroinae
• Dicercini

Misconceptions

Some people may confuse them with other similar wood-boring beetles that are not specific to conifers.

Tags

• insect
• beetle
• buprestid
• wood-borer
• North America