Spotted Apple Tree Borer
Saperda cretata
This record describes Saperda cretata (species). Recorded family: Cerambycidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Chrysomeloidea
- Family
- Cerambycidae (Longhorn Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Lamiinae
- Tribe
- Saperdini
- Genus
- Saperda
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
e. N. Amer. to MO-TX ( 3 )
Seasonal Activity
Mar-May (BG data)
Diet and Behavior
Diet: larvae host in Hawthorn ( Crataegus ) and apple ( Malus ) (Rosaceae) ( 4 )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Saperda cretata Newman 1838
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Saperda cretata. 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 Spotted Apple Tree Borer
How big is Spotted Apple Tree Borer?
15-21 mm
Where is Spotted Apple Tree Borer found?
Range: e. N. Amer. to MO-TX ( 3 )
What does Spotted Apple Tree Borer eat?
The diet of the Spotted Apple Tree Borer includes larvae host in Hawthorn ( Crataegus ) and apple ( Malus ) (Rosaceae) ( 4 ).
When is Spotted Apple Tree Borer active?
Spotted Apple Tree Borer: seasonal activity - Mar-May (BG data).