Phloeosinus scopulorum
Swaine, J.M., 1924
Juniper Bark Weevil
Phloeosinus scopulorum is a bark beetle in the Curculionidae, first described by J.M. Swaine in 1924. The species is known from North America. Members of the Phloeosinus are commonly referred to as bark weevils and are associated with coniferous trees, particularly junipers.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phloeosinus scopulorum: /ˌfloʊ.iːoʊˈsaɪnəs skɒˌpjʊˈlɔːrəm/
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Identification
As a member of Phloeosinus, this likely exhibits the characteristic crenulate (scalloped or notched) elytral declivity typical of the , though specific diagnostic features for P. scopulorum remain undocumented in available sources. The species name 'scopulorum' (Latin for 'of rocky places') may reflect an association with Rocky Mountain juniper or similar .
Habitat
The specific epithet suggests association with rocky , likely in conjunction with juniper trees. Members of Phloeosinus are generally found in coniferous woodlands where their host trees occur.
Distribution
North America. Specific range details beyond continental distribution are not documented in available sources.
Host Associations
- Juniperus - -level association inferred from and genus ; -level records for P. scopulorum are not documented
Ecological Role
As a bark beetle, likely functions in nutrient cycling through wood decomposition and may serve as prey for woodpeckers and other .
Human Relevance
The 'Juniper Bark Weevil' suggests potential association with juniper of economic or ecological importance, though specific impacts are not documented.
Similar Taxa
- Other Phloeosinus speciesShare crenulate elytral declivity and conifer-associated ; -level distinction requires examination of subtle morphological characters
More Details
Taxonomic status
Listed as provisionally accepted in Catalogue of Life and accepted in GBIF. The has minimal observation records (only 1 in iNaturalist as of source date).
Nomenclature
The specific epithet 'scopulorum' derives from Latin 'scopulus' meaning rocky cliff or crag, possibly indicating type locality or preferred .