Magdalis

Magdalis

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Magdalis: //mæɡˈdeɪlɪs//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Annual report of the Commissioners of Fisheries, Game and Forests of the State of New York" (1896-1900)) (18741127994) by Internet Archive Book Images. Used under a No restrictions license.
C.1927. Dendroctonus valens; Magdalis lecontei; Dendroctonus brevicomis; and Vespamima sequoiae. (38221533801) by R6, State & Private Forestry, Forest Health Protection. Used under a Public domain license.
Annual report of the Commissioners of Fisheries, Game and Forests of the State of New York" (1896-1900)) (18741127994) by Internet Archive Book Images. Used under a No restrictions license.
Image from page 64 of "A manual of dangerous insects likely to be introduced in the United States through importations" (1917) (14804673693) by Internet Archive Book Images. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Magdalis is a genus of wedge-shaped bark weevils within the family Curculionidae, consisting of at least 20 species found predominantly in North America. They are known for their life cycle that includes larvae that mine into the bark of dead or dying trees.

Physical Characteristics

Wedge-shaped body typical of bark weevils, with varying coloration including bronze and black; specific characteristics can vary by species.

Identification Tips

Identify by examining the shape, coloration, and specific markings of the body, as well as the structure of the mouthparts, which are adapted for boring into wood.

Habitat

Typically found in bark of dead or dying trees where larvae mine.

Distribution

Holarctic distribution; throughout North America.

Diet

Larvae feed on the inner bark of dead or dying trees; adults may feed on foliage.

Life Cycle

Complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult; larvae develop within the bark.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs in the bark of host trees; larvae emerge from eggs and mine into the wood.

Ecosystem Role

As bark weevils, they play a role in the decomposition process by breaking down dead wood.

Economic Impact

Potential economic impact in forestry due to their role in damaging trees, particularly during outbreaks.

Collecting Methods

  • Light traps
  • Pitfall traps
  • Hand collection from host trees

Preservation Methods

  • Pinned specimens
  • Alcohol preservation
  • Spray with insecticide for morphological studies

Evolution

Part of a diverse lineage within the Curculionidae family, adapted for life in arboreal environments.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often confused with other weevils, leading to misidentification; may be considered pests without recognizing their ecological role.

Tags

  • weevils
  • bark
  • Curculionidae
  • North America