European Powderpost Beetle
Lyctus linearis
This record describes Lyctus linearis (species). Recorded family: Bostrichidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
native to w. Palaearctic (now cosmopolitan), adventive in NA; in our area, throughout the US (common) & e. Canada earliest record in our area: IA 1896
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Bostrichoidea
- Family
- Bostrichidae (Horned Powder-post Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Lyctinae
- Tribe
- Lyctini
- Genus
- Lyctus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
commonly encountered in commercial hardwood products, especially in seasoned hickory, oak, ash, and walnut ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lyctus linearis (Goeze 1777)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Lyctus linearis. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About European Powderpost Beetle
What is European Powderpost Beetle?
European Powderpost Beetle (Lyctus linearis) is a species in the family Bostrichidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is European Powderpost Beetle?
2.5-5 mm
How do you identify European Powderpost Beetle?
native to w. Palaearctic (now cosmopolitan), adventive in NA; in our area, throughout the US (common) & e. Canada
Where is European Powderpost Beetle found?
Habitat: commonly encountered in commercial hardwood products, especially in seasoned hickory, oak, ash, and walnut ( 4 )