Sandalus niger

Knoch, 1801

cedar beetle, cicada parasite beetle

Sandalus niger is a in the Rhipiceridae, found in North America. Both sexes are capable of , though females are frequently observed motionless on elm tree trunks. Males fly during afternoon hours when temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, becoming immobilized below 15°C. After mating, females ascend to heights of 10 meters or more in elm trees to deposit in bark crevices or holes.

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Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sandalus niger: //ˈsændələs ˈnaɪɡər//

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Images

Habitat

Associated with elm (Ulmus) trees, where females are found on trunks and both sexes utilize bark for oviposition sites. Specific requirements beyond elm association are not documented.

Distribution

North America. Records include Ontario, Canada.

Seasonality

activity occurs during afternoon hours when ambient temperatures exceed 15°C. Specific seasonal timing of or peak activity is not documented.

Host Associations

elm (Ulmus) - oviposition siteFemales deposit in holes or behind bark of elm trees, typically at heights of 10 meters or above

Life Cycle

Females release in holes or behind elm bark at considerable height (10+ meters) following mating. Larval development and complete details are not documented in available sources.

Behavior

Males fly throughout the afternoon when temperatures are favorable (15–30°C), ceasing activity below 15°C. During mating periods, males remain motionless and do not fly. Females are typically observed motionless on elm tree trunks, though capable of . Post-mating, females actively climb to elevated positions in trees before ovipositing.

Ecological Role

Known as a ' ,' though specific parasitic relationships with cicadas are not detailed in available sources. The suggests potential association with cicada , but this relationship is not explicitly confirmed.

More Details

Taxonomic note

placement in Rhipiceridae (formerly sometimes treated as part of Callirhipidae or as a distinct family). The ' ' implies , but the specific nature of this relationship requires verification from primary literature.