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 .

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Sources and further reading