Dichelonyx linearis

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
Family: Scarabaeidae
Subfamily: Melolonthinae
Tribe: Dichelonychini
Genus: Dichelonyx
Species: linearis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Dichelonyx linearis: /dɪˈkɛləˌnɪks lɪˈnɛərɪs/

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

Images

Dichelonyx linearis by Jacy Lucier. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Dichelonyx linearis is a species within the Dichelonyx genus, identified as distinct from its coastal counterpart D. elongatulus. It is a herbivorous beetle that feeds on woody plants.

Physical Characteristics

Adults range from 8.0 to 10.8 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Morphological differences between D. linearis and D. elongatulus are not well defined; identification may require examination of geographical ranges and ecological habitat.

Habitat

D. linearis occurs inland, favoring environments where conifers and hardwoods are abundant.

Distribution

Found from Quebec and Georgia to Manitoba and Oklahoma.

Diet

Adults feed on conifers and hardwoods, occasionally damaging ornamental trees and shrubs.

Ecosystem Role

D. linearis plays a role as a herbivore in forest ecosystems, affecting plant communities and potentially impacting tree health.

Economic Impact

Can cause damage to ornamental trees and shrubs.

Evolution

Currently classified as a distinct species until more comprehensive taxonomic work is done.

Similar Taxa

Dichelonyx elongatulus

Misconceptions

Synonymy with D. elongatulus has not been firmly established and should be viewed with caution.