Pityogenes meridianus
This record describes Pityogenes meridianus (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
- Ipini
- Genus
- Pityogenes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
NC-GA-LA
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Dead and dying lower branches of pines ( 3 )
Life History
The burrow consists of 2-5 galleries originating at and radiating away from central nuptial chamber. ( 3 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pityogenes meridianus Blackman 1921
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Pityogenes meridianus. 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 Pityogenes meridianus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Marc DiGirolomo; Additional contributions by v belov , Marci Hess
Frequently Asked Questions About Pityogenes meridianus
How big is Pityogenes meridianus?
2.5-3.0 mm
Where is Pityogenes meridianus found?
Range: NC-GA-LA
What does Pityogenes meridianus eat?
The diet of the Pityogenes meridianus includes Dead and dying lower branches of pines ( 3 ).
What is the life cycle of a Pityogenes meridianus?
The burrow consists of 2-5 galleries originating at and radiating away from central nuptial chamber. ( 3 )