Dryocoetes betulae
This record describes Dryocoetes betulae (species). Recorded family: Curculionidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Curculionoidea
- Family
- Curculionidae (Snout and Bark Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scolytinae
- Tribe
- Dryocoetini
- Genus
- Dryocoetes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
British Columbia and Newfoundland to Louisiana and Florida
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Hosts: Betula lenta, B. lutea, B. papyrifera ; less common in Fagus grandifolia, Liquidambar styraciflua
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Dryocoetes betulae Hopkins, 1915
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Dryocoetes betulae. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Dryocoetes betulae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Marc DiGirolomo
Frequently Asked Questions About Dryocoetes betulae
How big is Dryocoetes betulae?
2.8-3.8mm
Where is Dryocoetes betulae found?
Range: British Columbia and Newfoundland to Louisiana and Florida
What does Dryocoetes betulae eat?
The diet of the Dryocoetes betulae includes Hosts: Betula lenta, B. lutea, B. papyrifera ; less common in Fagus grandifolia, Liquidambar styraciflua.