Scolytus muticus
Say, 1824
hackberry engraver, hackberry beetle
Scolytus muticus is a bark beetle in the Curculionidae, commonly known as the hackberry engraver or hackberry . The species is found in North America and is associated with hackberry trees (Celtis species). Like other members of the Scolytus, this species exhibits the typical bark beetle habit of excavating galleries in the phloem of trees.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Scolytus muticus: //skoˈlaɪtəs ˈmjuːtɪkəs//
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Identification
Scolytus muticus can be distinguished from other Scolytus by its association with hackberry (Celtis) as a plant, though specific morphological characters distinguishing it from are not well documented in available sources. The Scolytus is characterized by a cylindrical body form typical of bark beetles, with clubbed and shortened that expose the .
Habitat
Associated with hackberry trees (Celtis ), occurring in woodland and forested areas where this plant grows. Specific requirements beyond host presence are not well documented.
Distribution
North America. Distribution records indicate presence in Ontario, Canada, and presumably throughout the range of its hackberry trees in the United States and Canada.
Host Associations
- Celtis - primary The 'hackberry engraver' indicates association with hackberry trees; specific Celtis not documented
Human Relevance
As a bark beetle associated with hackberry, S. muticus may have minor forestry or ornamental tree pest significance, though specific economic impact is not documented in available sources. The is not known to be a major pest of commercial importance.
Similar Taxa
- Other Scolytus speciesThe Scolytus contains numerous bark beetle , many of which are morphologically similar and require detailed examination or association data for reliable identification. S. muticus is distinguished by its hackberry host association.