Violet Tanbark Beetle

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Callidium violaceum: //kəˈlɪdiəm ˌvaɪəˈleɪsiəm//

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Summary

Callidium violaceum, or the Violet Tanbark Beetle, is a variable species described by Linnaeus in 1758. It is commonly found under the bark of dry conifers, being both native to the Palaearctic region and adventive in parts of North America.

Physical Characteristics

Extremely variable in size, ranging from 8-18 mm in length (9-15 mm in North America).

Identification Tips

Note variation in coloration and size; primarily found under bark of conifers.

Habitat

Under bark of dry conifers.

Distribution

Native to the Palaearctic, adventive in northeastern USA and adjacent Canada.

Diet

Feed on the wood of coniferous trees.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are not specified; related species typically undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to larva to pupa to adult.

Reproduction

Reproduction details are not provided; likely typical of many beetles, involving egg laying on host material.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in wood decomposition and the ecosystem dynamics of conifer forests.

Economic Impact

Potential pest of conifer timber but specific impacts not detailed.

Collecting Methods

• Collect adult beetles using baited traps placed near infested trees.
• Inspect and collect under the bark of infested conifers.

Preservation Methods

• Preserve specimens in ethanol for molecular studies.
• Mount specimens on pins for morphological examination.

Similar Taxa

• Cerambycini
• C. testaceum

Misconceptions

May be confused with other similar beetles in the Cerambycidae family due to size and color variability.

Tags

• Cerambycidae
• beetle
• insect
• Palaearctic
• North America